The strength of surrender
We human beings like to pretend we are in control. We imagine we live in a fair and predictable universe. Part of what makes illness difficult is that we realize the opposite is true. No matter how carefully we assemble the building blocks of health, disease happens,...
The strength of imagination
While imagination is not included on most psychological strengths lists, I find it to be a fun and effective tool for working with thoughts and emotions. The good news is that we can cast into the future to set goals, connect more compassionately with people around...
self-compassion journaling prompts
Psychologist Kristin Neff says there are three elements to self-compassion: self-kindness vs. self-judgmentcommon humanity vs. isolationmindfulness vs. overidentification Here are some journaling prompts designed to help you explore and practice those elements. Bring...
Finding my way from symptom to self-compassion
I’ve been noticing recently that I have a scratchy, wavering old lady voice. It comes from not having enough air to project the sound. The nerve connections to my diaphragm and intercostal muscles are mostly gone, so I can’t get good breath support. (One of the things...
5 ways to practice compassion
“Compassion,” says meditation teacher Susan Piver, “is the ability to hold love and pain in your heart at the same time.” Andrew Boyd agrees. “Compassion hurts,” he writes, “when you feel connected to everything, you also feel responsible for everything.” He...
How people who are ill can connect in times of social distancing
In six more days, I will be fully vaccinated – two Pfizer vaccine shots +2 weeks of quarantine. While I’m excited about getting to the dentist and eye doctor, I am not going back to any in-person gatherings. We are still in the midst of pandemic and I, as “a person...
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