So here are some steps for calling up self-compassion, which you could blend together as self-compassion becomes easier for you: Take a moment to acknowledge your difficulties: your challenges and suffering. Bring to mind the feeling of being with someone you know cares about you. Perhaps a dear friend, a family member, a spirit, God . . . even a p

Self-love, to me, is every moment that we are mindful of our body, of our thoughts, of our feelings, breathing with what is arising without grasping or aversion.

Understanding and compassion are not for somebody else to cultivate. They can heal you and increase your happiness.

Think of the person you love most in the world—perhaps an innocent child whom you feel is 100 percent worthy of love. Now, turn that love back on yourself, and ima gine loving yourself that much. Does it feel comfortable or uncomfortable? What would have to shift internally for you to really love yourself that much? What would you have to give up t