MSC was developed by Christopher K. Germer, PhD, leader in the integration of mindfulness and psychotherapy www.MindfulSelfCompassion.org and Kristin Neff, PhD, pioneering researcher in the field of self-compassion www.Self-Compassion.org. MSC combines the skills of mindfulness and self-compassion, providing a powerful tool for emotional resilience. Mindfulness is the first step in emotional healing—being able to turn toward and acknowledge our difficult thoughts and feelings (such as inadequacy, sadness, anger, confusion) with a spirit of openness and curiosity. Self-compassion involves responding to these difficult thoughts and feelings with kindness, sympathy and understanding so that we soothe and comfort ourselves when we’re hurting. Research has shown that self-compassion greatly enhances emotional wellbeing. It boosts happiness, reduces anxiety and depression, and can even help maintain healthy lifestyle habits such as diet and exercise. Being both mindful and compassionate leads to greater ease and well-being in our daily lives. For more information about Mindful Self-Compassion, please see www.centerformsc.org .
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