Increasing self-compassion is one of the most powerful things to improve how we sleep. This article explores the transformation that can occur when we learn to relate to our selves and our situations in life with openness and kindness. Some key sleep strategies are explored as well - but they are much more effective when we have a solid foundation of self-compassion.

This article explores an intense internal conflict between two of my protective parts. My anxious, hyper-productive “Frantic Overthinker” and my carefree, joy-seeking “Free Spirit.” Using the Internal Family Systems (IFS) model, I share how both of these parts are actually protecting a vulnerable inner child or “exile” who fears abandonment and unworthiness. By connecting to my true Self, the core of compassion and clarity in me, I was able to listen to these parts with curiosity and care, and quickly find some balance, relief, and even some real emotional healing. The article highlights how IFS offers a powerful, accessible framework for self-understanding, self-compassion, and transformation.

This article explores the transformative power of curiosity, a gentle yet radical way of softening fear, judgment, and resistance. I share how, through a reflective letter-writing practice called Letters from Love, I am able to channel my deeper wisdom and allow curiosity to open space for possibility, compassion, and resilience. Curiosity can be a lifeline during suffering, helping us meet anxiety with wonder rather than panic. Backed by both personal insight and scientific support, I believe that curiosity is not only a mindset but a true superpower for healing and growth.

I used to resist the idea that illness could be a blessing, but with my own constant health struggles until recently, I was pushed to really commit to mindfulness and self-compassion. These practices didn’t cure me, but they dramatically changed how I relate to my body and to my pain, which has eased both physical symptoms and emotional suffering. Over time, kindness toward myself has became my new default mode, with some amazing effects: It has helped me sleep better, digest my food and my experiences, and make more nourishing choices. It’s not a magic fix, but it’s an incredibly powerful shift.

During a time when I pushed myself too hard and ignored my true needs, chocolate became my daily comfort and coping mechanism. My inner critic constantly told me I wasn’t enough, driving me to ignore my burnout and keep striving for unreachable goals of perfection. Over time, I began to understand my high sensitivity, embrace my neurodivergence, and find compassion for myself AND for my own inner critic, which is trying to protect me. I have learned to honor my limits, seek real connection and meaning, and choose self-compassion over constant striving.

This article shares my reflections on how vital self-compassion is, especially when we're struggling. Just some small, kind gestures can create powerful shifts. Inspired by a podcast with Forrest Hanson and Dr. Chris Germer, I share simple ways to practice both tender and fierce self-compassion: kind self-talk, soothing actions, and even gentle touch. I used to think mindfulness meant neutrality, but I’ve come to realize that adding warmth and care makes all the difference, and without that, nothing can really heal those deep wounds. These days, I try to check in with myself gently and ask what I truly need, and that small act often leads to some beautiful healing.

It can be all too hard to access self-compassion when you need it most. In this article, I reflect on how fragmented and overwhelmed life can make us, especially those of us who are highly sensitive or have lived through trauma. I share how, despite all the books, tools, and good advice out there, real healing didn’t begin for me until I could talk to myself with kindness. Not perfectly, just gently. Over time, I have found my way back to my Self, and live to help others do the same.