Self-Compassion
A Nourishing practice to live at peace with food
“And I said to my body softly: I want to be your friend. It took a long breath and replied: I have been waiting my whole life for this” - Nayyirah Waheed
Why do we suggest that self-compassion is so critical in finding peace with food and our bodies?
Self-compassion encourages us to look inward and explore our own experience, rather than turning outward. We must look within ourselves to find the acceptance, forgiveness, and connection needed to heal our relationship with food and our body.
From a young age, our perception of health, beauty and self-worth is influenced by the culture around us - outside of ourselves. We did not choose this, it simply happens. We are conditioned to believe if we look, eat and move a certain way, we are healthy and valued.
If we do not meet the expectations set by the culture around us, we are left feeling like we aren’t worthy or enough as we are, which leads to self-criticism. This can become a damaging cycle that eats away at our mental and physical well-being. Continuing in this cycle creates pain and suffering.
Self-compassion acknowledges that pain and suffering are a shared part of the human experience. We deserve the same compassion in response to this pain and suffering that we so readily offer others.
Self-compassion supports acceptance. We can accept that these external influences exist, and actively choose what is best for us - turning towards ourselves with gentleness and kindness.
Self-compassion supports forgiveness. By embracing forgiveness, we can also embrace peace, hope, gratitude and joy. Forgiveness is the dedication to a personalized process of change.
Self-compassion supports connection. It allows us to recognize that we are not alone in our experiences. We are not alone in our pain and suffering. Brene Brown defines connection as “the energy that exists between people when they feel seen, heard, and valued; when they can give and receive without judgment; and when they derive sustenance and strength from the relationship”.
Self-compassion starts by holding ourselves close and acknowledging we deserve to be treated in the way we would treat a good friend. It anchors the idea that we are all enough, and are worthy of love, belonging and acceptance, as we are. Learning to have compassion for ourselves, and interrupting the damaging diet culture cycle allows us to move away from the idea that we are letting our bodies ‘go’, and move toward the idea that we are letting our bodies ‘be’.
When we find compassion for ourselves and give ourselves permission to be at peace, we create space in our lives. That space is yours to fill. What will you choose to fill that space with?
If you’re looking for more support, download our Self-Compassion Workbook here.
