How Mindful Self-Compassion Can Support Our Recovery


By Tanya D'Angelo, APCC

The defining characteristics of mindful self-compassion include mindfulness, recognizing our common humanity and self-kindness. Each of these ingredients can offer a bit of support depending on what is needed in the moment. Below are a few options within each category to consider.

Mindfulness

  • We can attune to our senses in the moment, without judgment. This can lead to stress reduction.
  • Without jumping ahead or worrying about the past, take things moment by moment only dealing with what we are able to as it comes.
  • We can build awareness around why we were drawn to the particular behavior or substance. This awareness can help us recognize what we are needing more of in our life in order for us to more readily meet those needs in ways that align with our long-term goals.

Common Humanity

  • In the instance that relapse does occur, we experience it as a natural part of a very human process and this removes feelings of shame and potentially harmful self-judgement.
  • In recognizing that we are human, we also recognize our human limitations and reach out for support when needed.
  • We can recognize we are not alone and connect with others.

Self- Compassion

  • This can come in the form of being kind and understanding toward ourselves just as we would be to a good friend.
  • This can also come in the form of fierce self-compassion, where we are taking action steps such as removing something harmful from our surroundings or setting an important boundary.
  • We can speak to or write to ourselves with kindness, offering care and concern.
By noticing what is happening in the moment, non-judgmentally, recognizing that we are only human, and relating to ourselves with care, we can offer ourselves some relief and support that can be an important piece in supporting our recovery.

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