12 Days Of Christmas Day 9

Welcome.

Settle in and close your eyes.

Take three kind breaths.

Breathe in gentleness,

Exhale harshness.

Breathe in compassion,

Exhale judgment.

Breathe in love,

Exhale criticism.

Return to your natural breath.

I want to ask you something.

If your dearest friend came to you feeling inadequate,

Overwhelmed,

Or like she wasn't enough,

What would you say to her?

You would probably offer words of comfort.

You'd remind her of her strengths.

You'd tell her she's doing her best.

You'd wrap her in compassion and understanding.

Now notice,

Do you offer yourself the same kindness?

Or do you save your compassion for others while speaking to yourself with harshness?

Many of us were taught that being hard on ourselves would motivate us to be better.

But research shows the opposite is actually true.

Self-compassion,

Not self-criticism,

Leads to lasting change.

Bring to mind something you've been criticizing yourself about.

Maybe you feel you're not doing enough this holiday season.

Not exercising enough,

Not being patient enough.

Whatever it is,

Just notice it.

Now place one hand over your heart.

Feel the warmth of your hand.

This is a gesture of self-soothing,

Of offering yourself comfort.

Speak to yourself the way you would speak to that dear friend.

You're doing the best you can.

This is hard,

And you're trying.

You don't have to be perfect.

You are enough.

Notice how this feels different from harsh self-criticism.

Criticism creates tension and resistance.

Compassion creates softness and possibility.

You deserve the same kindness that you give to others.

Not when you're perfect.

Not when you've earned it.

Right now,

Exactly as you are.

Continue holding your hand over your heart.

Breathe in self-compassion.

Breathe out self-judgment.

You are worthy of your own love.

Take a deep breath in,

And release.

Begin to bring movement back to your body.

Wiggle your fingers and toes.

And when you're ready,

Gently open your eyes.

Today,

Speak to yourself with the same kindness that you offer to others.

You deserve it.