The Foundations of Mindful Self Compassion (MSC)

The Foundations of Mindful Self-Compassion (MSC) Course is an empirically-supported, 8-week training program designed to cultivate the skill of self-compassion. Based on the work of Kristin Neff, PhD, and Christopher Germer, PhD, MSC teaches core principles and practices that enable participants to respond to difficult moments in their lives with kindness, care and understanding.

The three key components of self-compassion are mindfulness, a sense of common humanity, and self-kindness. Mindfulness helps us notice our difficult feelings, thoughts and body sensations in a balanced and accepting way. Common humanity reminds us that difficulty is inherent in being human, and we aren’t alone when we struggle. Self-kindness asks, “What do I need in this moment, that would bring me closer to feeling supported?”

Research demonstrates that self-compassion is strongly associated with emotional wellbeing, less anxiety, depression and stress, maintenance of healthy habits such as diet and exercise, and satisfying personal relationships.

Participation in this 8-week course teaches and engages participants in skills and practices that aim to support the ability to do the following:

• Practice self-compassion in daily life
• Understand the empirically-supported benefits of self-compassion
• Motivate yourself with kindness rather than criticism
• Handle difficult emotions with greater ease
• Transform challenging relationships, old and new
• Manage caregiver fatigue
• Practice the art of savoring and self-appreciation