Since the publication of Kristin Neff’s ground-breaking book Self-Compassion, there has been a surge of interest in the science and practice of self-compassion, particularly in clinical settings. But that has often focused on the gentle version of self-compassion, which involves “being with” ourselves in a compassionate way. We comfort and soothe ourselves when in pain, just as we might for a friend who is struggling. We give ourselves our own kind attention and care rather than cutting ourselves down with self-criticism. And we validate our pain, acknowledging that our suffering is worthy of attention.
But self-compassion can be fierce as well as tender.
Fierce self-compassion involves taking action in the world to protect, provide and motivate ourselves to alleviate our suffering. It means saying “no” to others who are hurting us – drawing our boundaries firmly. Or saying “no” to our own harmful behaviors, so that we can be safe and healthy. It means giving ourselves what we genuinely need – mentally, emotionally, physically and spiritually – without subordinating our needs to those of others, so we can be authentic and fulfilled. And it means motivating ourselves to reach our goals or make needed changes in our lives.
This unique workshop will teach skills of both types of self-compassion – the fierce as well as the tender. Led by Dr. Neff, the pioneering researcher of self-compassion, it will not only cover scientific findings on the topic but also provide concrete practices drawn from Dr. Neff’s empirically supported Mindful Self-Compassion program for use in daily life. The program will include a satisfying mix of experiential learning and science-based insights. It will be relevant for the general public as well as to practicing mental health professionals.
Throughout the program, Dr. Neff will reveal how, in order to be truly self-compassionate – in order to be whole – we need to integrate both versions of self-compassion: If we are gentle without ferocity, we risk becoming complacent or disempowered; if we are ferocious without tenderness, we risk becoming hostile, selfish, or perfectionistic. Like a tree with a solid trunk and flexible branches, we need to stand strong while still embracing others as part of an interdependent whole. We need love in our hearts so we don’t perpetuate harm, but we need fierceness in our belly to stand up to harm.
Saturday August 8th & Sunday August 9th – 1pm – 4pm PT
2-Day Workshop Schedule: (Please plan to attend both days.)
Day One
1:00-2:30
Topic: Orientation to workshop
Topic: Self-Compassion Theory
Topic: The Yin and Yang of Self-Compassion
Exercise: Gestures of Self-Compassion
Topic: Self-Compassion Research
Q & A – 10 min
Break 2:30 – 2:45
2:45-4:00
Topic: Physiology of Self-Compassion
Practice: Supportive Yin and Yang Touch
Topic: Backdraft
Practice: Soles of Feet
Practice: Soothing Self-Compassion Break
Breakout groups
Practice: Fierce Self-Compassion Break
Day Two
1:00-2:30
Topic: Understanding the Inner Critic
Exercise: Motivating Ourselves with Compassion
Break out groups
Topic: Self-compassion, anger, and social justice
Q&A
2:30-2:45 (break)
2:45 – 4:00
Practice: Breathing Yin and Yang
Topic: Meeting our Needs
Exercise: Core Values
Exercise: What Would I Like to Remember?
Who Should Attend?
This workshop is most appropriate for individuals who already have some experience practicing self-compassion and/or mindfulness. It is relevant for the general public as well as to practicing mental health professionals.
Course Objectives:
- Identify the three key components of self-compassion;
- Describe key research that supports the benefits of self-compassion;
- Utilize techniques to increase self-compassion in everyday life;
- Utilize practices to motivate yourself with kindness rather than self-criticism
Continuing Education Hours:
Psychologists: Continuing Education Credit for this program is provided by UC San Diego Center for Mindfulness. The UC San Diego Center for Mindfulness is approved by the American Psychological Association to sponsor continuing education for psychologists. The UC San Diego Center for Mindfulness maintains responsibility for this program and its content. This course offers 6 CE credits.
California licensed MFTs, LPCCs, LEPs, LCSWs: Continuing Education Credit for this program is provided by UC San Diego Center for Mindfulness. The UC San Diego Center for Mindfulness is approved by the American Psychological Association to sponsor continuing education for psychologists. 6 CE credits may be applied to your license renewal through the California Board of Behavioral Sciences. For those licensed outside California, please check with your local licensing board to determine if CE credit is accepted.
Nurses: UC San Diego Center for Mindfulness is approved by the California Board ofRegistered Nursing, Provider Number CEP16351, for 6 CE credits.
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Zoom:
This event will be utilizing the Zoom video conferencing platform. After you register, you’ll receive an email with the zoom information within a couple of minutes of the time you register (please check your spam if needed). The Zoom info will also show on this page (if you are logged in to your InsightLA account). To make an InsightLA account click here.
This event will be recorded and emailed to everyone who registers.
