Dear COE Community,
The practice of self-compassion offers a way to engage in healing and self-care during challenging times. Our world at this moment is full of so many challenges, hate, and ugliness, which may be causing many of us to be negatively impacted and to suffer. We also may be confronted by difficulties in our individual lives that leave us feeling down and discouraged. Dr. Kristin Neff, Associate Professor of Human Development and Culture, University of Texas at Austin, is an expert in the practice of self-compassion. Through her research she has identified 3 main elements needed for this practice, which are 1)understanding that all human being experience difficulties and suffering at times, 2) as individuals, we can view our feelings during challenging times as a part of life and humanity, and 3) these are the times when we are most in need of giving ourselves support, encouragement, and loving-kindness rather than engaging in feelings of helplessness, judgement, or inadequacy. According to Dr. Neff, “Research indicates that self-compassion is one of the most powerful sources of coping and resilience we have available, radically improving our mental and physical wellbeing. It motivates us to make changes and reach our goals not because we’re inadequate, but because we care and want to be happy.” Interested in learning more about self-compassion? Please see numerous resources on Dr. Neff’s website below:
- Self-Compassion - with Kristin Neff
For a list of other self-care options for spring break 2026, please see our COE self-care website for resources for faculty, staff, students, and the community at:
https://www.csun.edu/eisner-education/self-care/articles-information-self-care
This week, make time to give yourselves the kindness and caring that you deserve!
Warmly,
Shari