A contemplation on the gift of service, giving ourselves self-compassion amidst the holidays and sharing that gift with others.

A contemplation on the gift of service, giving ourselves self-compassion amidst the holidays and sharing that gift with others.
Sydney Spears, Ph.D, LCSW, MSC Teacher, reflects on the shared humanity present in the black experience and drawls parallels to her deepening understanding of her ancestral history.
When we feel safely connected to others we begin to feel content and safe. This loving-kindness practice can help bring you out of your threat defense system and into your care system, where you are resourced rather than reactive.
Touched by the depth of caring and authentic brotherhood he found during a recent trip to Angola Prison in Louisiana, USA, Chris Germer discovered the power of self-compassion to support those suffering under the oppressive weight of shame for their crimes, their incarceration, and their inability to care for their families while in prison. So where must we go from here?
A recent study examined the effects of dog ownership on veterans with symptoms of post-traumatic stress. This research suggests that being a dog owner may be a way to access and cultivate the warmth and comfort provided by self-compassion through connecting with the loving presence of a canine friend.
by Michelle Becker
How compassion for our partner and ourselves can help when disillusionment and negativity bias kick in.