COVID-19 Eight-day Self-Compassion Challenge
How are you coping with isolation and uncertainty around COVID-19? Now more than ever we need optimism and hope. Where do we look for that when our political leaders are struggling?
We look within ourselves.
This self-compassion challenge focuses your attention on you in a particular way, to gain insight and new skills to maintain optimism and hope.
For eight consecutive days you’ll learn new ways check up on how you really are, what you need, what works and what doesn’t. You can’t take care of others if you don’t take care of yourself first. In any case, why shouldn’t you feel better?
Here are eight things. Do one each day. Follow the instructions carefully for best results.
DAY 1. BREATHE CONSCIOUSLY
At least three times today, take 3 deep breaths and feel your body respond. As you inhale feel the breath fill your body, as you exhale, feel it leave your body, pay attention to the rhythm of your breath, notice its calming effect.
DAY 2. FOCUS ON THE PRESENT MOMENT
Check in three to five times today, to note where your mind is. Are you in the past or future? Acknowledge where you are, with loving kindness gently return to the present. This is where your life is happening and where you have a say in it.
DAY 3. CONNECT TO YOUR HEART
Place your hand on your chest right over your heart and take a few deep breaths. Keep your attention on sensations here. Return to this observation at least three times today. What are you finding? Notice your emotions change.
DAY 4. TAKE A WALK WITH NO DESTINATION IN MIND (every day if possible)
Notice the world around you. Feel your body. Notice your thoughts and feelings. Connect to nature with all your senses.
DAY 5. GRATITUDE
Think of and write down three things you’re grateful for today.
DAY 6. Allow yourself to not keep the peace. Say, ‘No,’ either in your own head or out loud. Let go of old patterns and listen to your gut. Do it respectfully but firmly. Saying ‘No’ may be good for you—and just what the other person needs too!
DAY 7. USE EMPATHY
People are afraid, confused and being overwhelmed by emotions. Put yourself in their shoes. See through their eyes. Understand their perspective. Watch what happens.
DAY 8 ACCEPT YOURSELF
You find peace when you accept yourself as you are right now, flaws and all. By accepting whatever you feel—good or bad—you let go of expectation about how you ‘should’ be. There’s no greater act of self-love.
We’ll get through this time together. I’d love to hear how this self compassion challenge is impacting you. Please share…
With love,
Caroline
450.853.0616.
