Mirror Self-Compassion. How does it work?

At any moment thoughts go naturally through our mind. What if while standing in front of the mirror, we decide to be more intentional in our thinking instead of letting thoughts wander irrationally?

When we begin to pay attention to our inner talk, we determine what to offer ourselves and can choose between a range of emotions, such as indifference, criticism, reassurance or kindness.

Common sense would suggest that we should offer ourselves positive emotions. But without a rational commitment, how many would naturally do that? Paying attention to how we talk to ourselves can make a huge difference in the way we feel.

Positive affirmations allow our minds to stay flexible and open to self-compassion and kindness even when things become a bit challenging.

Repeating positive affirmations in front of a mirror is a way to improve self-acceptance. There are many articles, books, and youtube videos describing how an intentional positive mindset improves the way life is experienced. That's why self-compassion and mindfulness are frequently suggested to be implemented in our self-care practices.

Among the tools to add to our daily routine there is compassionate self-talk. Paying attention to the way we talk to ourselves. Noticing if we tend to be harsh or critical and if we do so, intentionally change the self-talk to a more compassionate, encouraging and non-judgmental one.

Using compassionate self-statements, even after self-criticism, has been found to improve the quality of the feelings toward ourselves.

It is important to notice that the aim is not to avoid taking responsibility for our mistakes by justifying them, but rather to approach them differently. We can acknowledge that:

• The outcome was not as expected

• Future actions need to be re-evaluated

• Accept that we are imperfect

• We did what we thought to be the best at that moment

• We may or may not able to improve the situation

• We can do better

“Self-compassion is simply giving the same kindness to ourselves

that we would give to others.”

Christopher Germer

Making positive self-statements aloud reduces self-disparaging thoughts and improves the way we perceive ourselves.

Demonstrate compassion for our own suffering, strengthen also self-regulation skills efficiently, and build stronger safety feelings. Practising self-soothing activities enhances positive emotions like satisfaction, security, and self-appr