Introduction & Theoretical Background
The ‘compassionate self’ is a part of us which can contain any strong emotional reactions in a wise and grounded way, and it can be cultivated and developed with practice. Being connected with your compassionate self encourages a pattern of thinking, feeling, and acting which can have a powerful, positive impact on our wellbeing and how we deal with difficulties. There are a variety of exercises that can be used to develop your compassionate self.
Being with people who we like and feel safe with can also provide a powerful experience of care, love, and support. Research indicates that we don’t actually have to be with somebody to take these benefits – just thinking about somebody that you’re close to can reduce your body’s physiological stress response, as well as reducing your blood pressure to the same level if the person was actually in the room with you. These research findings