written by Kathleen Moore, LPC
Stress can get the better of us. People can often experience burn-out, low self-esteem, relationship conflict, financial pressure, and medical problems. Often, it is not the lack of coping skills or relaxation techniques that lead to stress but according to Dr. Brene Brown, a research professor and author: “We are most often missing the commitment to ourselves that is rooted in compassion and empathy.”
Here is an exercise to try. Listen to another person/partner/friend/co-worker/child and each of you share a story about a stressful situation and respond with:
“You feel and think ____________because_____________. “
This simple statement does not judge and does not fix the situation, it is simply a way to listen . Compassion and empathy is a skill to reduce autonomic arousal and accept human conditions of which we are all part of.
Other Activities to promote Self Compassion and Wellness :
Make a resolution to speak kindly of all people
Place your hand on your heart
Discover something new. Visit a museum or art gallery.
Finish work ahead of time
Resolve not to impress people
Get a good night’s sleep
Choose a diet low in saturated fat
Visit health professionals about unusual symptoms
Take part in moderate exercise 5x per week
Submit a story to a literary magazine
Believe that your life has a purpose
Dance to music
Settle conflicts with compromise and discussion
Research shows practicing self-compassion leads to happiness, less stress and more resilience. If we can help you work through this at Lone Star Circle of Care, please give us a call 877-800-5722 and schedule an appointment with one of our team members.
