What is mindful Self-Compassion (MSC)?
Most of us know how to be kind to others. Mindful Self-Compassion (MSC) is the practice of learning to extend that same warmth and kindness to ourselves. Especially in moments that hurt most. The moments of failure. Self-doubt. Falling short.
Self-compassion feels like the warm sun on your face on a cold winter.
The Mindful Self-Compassion (MSC) course was developed by Kristin Neff, a leading researcher in self-compassion, and Christopher Germer, a clinical psychologist specializing in mindfulness-based approaches. The curriculum is rooted in both current research and contemplative traditions that have been practiced for centuries.
Why does MSC matter?
Your mind can tell you to be kinder to yourself and that rarely changes anything. This 8-week course works differently —through practice, not just information, you build a felt sense of trust in yourself and access to the goodness that’s already there within you. And it’s not just a nice idea: Across thousands of studies, greater self-compassion is consistently associated with mental and physical well-being.
Self-compassion doesn’t make you less driven. Research shows it weakens the link between perfectionism and depression. It reduces the self-criticism and fear of failure that drive anxiety. And it does this without weakening your motivation to grow.
Self-compassion shows up in how you live, not just how you feel. None of this comes from trying harder or becoming a different person. It’s about learning a different way to relate to yourself and coming home to the one who was always capable of self-compassion.
“Self-Compassion feels like the warm sun on your face on a cold winter”
Research Finds Self-Compassionate People Are more Likely to*:
What to expect
The MSC program includes guided meditations, group discussions, writing exercises, experiential exercises. MSC is evidence-based, but knowing the research won’t change how you treat yourself. You can’t think your way to self-compassion. This course is designed to be felt, not just learned — live, in real conversation, with other humans doing the same work. We get to do this together, in community, so that none of it has to be done alone. You’ll leave with practices you can return to in daily life and lean on whenever it matters most.
There are 8 weekly sessions that are 2 hours each, in addition to a 3 hour retreat midway.
In MSC, You will learn to:
- Learn the research and physiology of self-compassion and what it is (and isn’t)
- Practice mindfulness and compassion in everyday life
- Motivate and nourish yourself with kindness rather than criticism
- Let self-compassion help you act from your values rather than fear
- Meet difficult emotions with more ease
- Balance care for yourself while caring for others
- Navigate difficult relationships
- Honor your needs and have greater sense of trust in yourself
- Learn to slow down, appreciate yourself, and savour the goodness in life