Practicing Self-Compassion

Self-compassion is a very powerful (and personal) thing, and can extend into many areas of your life. I encourage you to give self-compassion a try. Life will always be messy in some fashion so give yourself the kindness and support you deserve along the way.

In order to alleviate any type of suffering, you must be compassionate with yourself.

Self-compassion vs. Self-judgment

Do you generally beat yourself up over mistakes or find the lesson and move on? Your adaptability is an important tool to move forward with ease and confidence. Self-compassion helps to reduce distorted perceptions of self-blame, low self-worth and negative self-image.

Make a routine in self care.

This can be defined as going to the gym, taking a walk, getting a massage, doing your nails, practicing a sport, singing, painting – do whatever makes you feel good, with no other reason behind it than just feeling good.

Be mindful of how you speak to yourself.

Your internal dialogue matters. It creates your thoughts, which create feelings, which leads to your behavior. So, if you’re constantly speaking poorly about yourself to yourself, it’s going to be difficult to perform at your best. How would you respond to a friend going through the same situation as you? Do you talk to yourself as kindly as you do to others?

Surround yourself with loving people.

This may be more difficult for some people than others. Whether you have a network of people you can turn to, or you’re in search of a better crowd, know that you always have options and you are never alone.

Get restful sleep.

There are countless cases of people having sleep issues due to the many anxiety-inducing issues going on today. There is not enough attention on the subject and how it relates to mental health. If you are really feeling the blues, try to focus on getting the sleep you need and the rest you deserve. You’ll have a better chance at tackling life with the energy you need and a sound mind.

Just do the best you can, with what you have.

Sometimes, we’re just too hard on ourselves. Give yourself a break from perfectionism. Some days are just going to be worse than others. Be a support system to the most important person in your life… YOU!

If you would like to speak to Chana about therapy, contact her today.

Short Meditation for People with Busy Minds

Chana Pfeifer, LCSW – Short Meditation for People with Busy Minds

Meditating is really hard for me.. I’ve been doing yoga for over 17 years and meditation is the hardest part. Through a lot of practice I find that sometimes it works for me and sometimes it doesn’t, but when it does, I’m really grateful. I do this with a lot of clients in my office. I’ve done it with the elderly in their homes. So I figured that I’d share with you a type of meditation that sometimes works for me.

I’ll do it with you..

I’m going to close my eyes. I’m going to start to breathe in and out of my nose. Breathing in … and breathing out … Especially in today’s day and age, being grateful for my breath. Noticing the air being a little bit cooler as it enters my nostrils. So as we start this meditation, I’m noticing how I feel in my body right now. Any sensations, tightness, pressure, and just noticing without judging it. For me, I’m noticing a little tightness in my chest. What are you feeling? I’m also noticing that right now, I’m feeling a little anxious. Remember to continue breathing in and out of your nose.

Now, my mind is usually racing – I have a very busy busy head. In yoga, they call it a ‘monkey mind’. Remember, to give yourself credit for trying your best during this meditation.

For more info. on counseling, call (516) 592-1107 or email Chana Pfeifer, LCSW today.