Fierce Self-Compassion: What It Is
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 as Dr. Neff discusses in her new book Fierce Self-Compassion, self-compassion can be fierce as well as tender.
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.
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.
Program
This unique workshop will focus primarily on fierce self-compassion. Led by Dr. Neff, the pioneering researcher of self-compassion, it will draw on practiced developed in the book Fierce Self-Compassion 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.
Fierce self-compassion involves taking action in the world to protect, provide and motivate ourselves to alleviate our suffering.
Throughout the workshop, 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 or selfish. 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.
The workshop lasts from: 19:00 – 22:15 hrs. (Europe) with 15 minutes break included.
Workshop Objectives
- Identify how the three key components of self-compassion can be drawn upon to protect ourselves;
- Utilize techniques to increase fierce self-compassion in everyday life;
- Draw effective boundaries;
- Begin to value yourself and give yourself what you need.
For Whom
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.