Self-Compassion for Shame
This program has been developed by Dr. Chris Germer along with a team of senior MSC teachers.
Shame is everywhere. Shame can occur when we feel judged by others or when we judge ourselves. It can happen when we do something wrong and when we’re entirely innocent of wrongdoing. Whenever we feel bad about ourselves, for whatever reason, there is a touch of shame.
Shame is our most difficult human emotion. Shame makes us go small, go silent or go away. Ironically, shame itself is not the problem. The problem is that there’s often no one home to work with shame.
Shame is also one of our deepest emotions. It invisibly shapes our personalities as we grow into adulthood and it prevents us from being fully ourselves with others.
- What would happen if you were able to care for yourself when you felt shame, rather than being immobilized by fear, attacking yourself, or zoning out?
- How would your life be different if you could meet shame with compassion and stay connected, think in a balanced way, and make wise, healthy choices?
Chris Germer and the teacher/development team are committed to creating a positive learning environment in which you, and each part of you, feels welcome just as you are.
