What is common humanity?
The shared human experiences, emotions, and vulnerabilities that connect us. We all share these aspects of love, compassion, and suffering. Helps us feel connected rather than isolated.
What different deep breathing strategies?
4x4, rollercoaster, 4-7-8, diaphragmatic
I know that other people think that I am not important.
Mindreading/jumping to conclusions.
What is the "best friend" test?
Involves evaluating self-talk by considering whether one would speak to a loved one in the same critical manner.
What societal norms hinder us from being kind to ourselves?
Stigma and individualism perpetuate self-criticism and hinder self-compassion.
What is mindfulness?
Being aware of one's thoughts, emotions, and sensations without judgement, allowing for a balanced perspective on difficult emotions.
What are some grounding skills? Define and give an example.
Using body sensations to shock the body back into the present moment.
If I talk to my parents about how I feel, they won't listen to me.
Fortune telling.
How can simple exercises like deep breathing and hand placement help in show oneself kindness?
They can promote a sense of safety and calmness, helping us be more compassionate to ourselves.
How does hypermasculinity affect one's ability to show self-compassion?
Pressure to conform to these ideals discourages vulnerability and self-compassion, which hinders emotional growth.
Treating oneself with warmth, understanding, and compassion when experiencing suffering or feeling inadequate.
What is distraction? Give an example.
I feel angry so I'm the worst.
How does the compassionate reflection exercise contribute to self-compassion?
It reinforces self-compassion by acknowledging imperfections and growth opportunities with kindness.
What role does fear of mistakes play in resisting self-compassion?
It may lead to self-criticism and avoidance of self-compassion, hindering resilience and growth.
Why is it important to differentiate between self-criticism and self-kindness? What is the difference?
Self-kindness involves treating oneself with gentleness and understanding, while self-criticism involves being harsh and judgmental. It does not facilitate a loving relationship.
What is the difference between distraction and avoidance?
Distraction is a short-term skill that helps us feel better in the moment, while avoidance is ongoing distraction that does not have efforts to return to the issue.
I failed my math quiz so I'm never going to graduate high school.
Overgeneralizing.
How can inner child work help us be more self-compassionate?
It can help us understand emotional wounds and unmet needs that may have shaped our understanding of dealing with our feelings. By reconnecting with our younger selves, we can nurture that child and give ourselves what we needed before.
How can mindfulness help with depression?
It helps us develop the ability to tolerate unpleasant emotions or thoughts, reducing the risk of depression.
Questioning the accuracy and helpfulness of automatic thoughts to develop a more balanced and realistic perspective.
I should have already been done with my ED, I've been in treatment for x amount of time.
Should/Must statements.
How can reflecting on personal achievements foster self-compassion?
It helps us acknowledge efforts and promotes a growth mindset.
How can we use assertive communication to practice self-compassion?