10% Happier with Dan Harris How to Go Easy on Yourself in a Pandemic | Dr. Kristin Neff
Apr 15, 2020
Kristin Neff, an associate professor at the University of Texas at Austin, is a leading expert on self-compassion. She discusses the importance of being kinder to ourselves during the pandemic rather than succumbing to harsh self-criticism. Neff emphasizes balancing high standards with self-acceptance, explaining the difference between healthy and maladaptive perfectionism. She offers practical techniques to enhance emotional well-being, highlighting the role of self-compassion in fostering resilience and community support during tough times.
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Neff's Son Adapts
- Kristin Neff was initially worried about her autistic son's adjustment to pandemic disruptions.
- However, he adapted well to online classes, easing her stress.
Managing Pandemic Stress
- Acknowledge and validate stress, even if others have it worse.
- Use mindfulness, physical touch, and self-kindness to process emotions.
Science of Self-Compassion
- Self-compassion accesses the parasympathetic nervous system, promoting calmness.
- Physical touch and kind words can trigger this system, like bonding with a baby.
