Being aware of our emotions helps us to be more aware about our needs. We often try to ignore our difficult emotions but that might make the emotions even stronger. Being aware of the emotions helps us to handle the difficult feelings.

Sometimes it is difficult to find words for emotions. Labeling emotions is often the first step to take when trying to cope with difficult emotions.

Self-compassion is a skill that helps us to cope with difficult emotions. Self-compassion consists of three elements:

  • kindness and a warm regard towards oneself when experiencing difficult emotions and suffering
  • an experience that difficulties and suffering are a part of humanity and that others experience the same emotions
  • accepting, conscious presence and making observations on one's personal experiences as they are

When encountering difficult situations you can try this practice:

  • Self-compassion break (audio by Kristin Neff)



Last modified: Tuesday, 10 July 2018, 1:21 PM