Mindfulness and self-compassion are now buzzwords for self-improvement. In fact, a growing body of research shows these practices can lead to real mental health benefits. This research—ongoing, voluminous, and worldwide—clearly shows how and why these two practices work.
One effective way to cultivate mindfulness and self-compassion is through meditation.
For more than 20 years, as a clinical psychologist, research scientist, and educator, I taught meditation to students and clinical patients and took a deep dive into the research literature. My recent book, “The Self-Talk Workout: Six Science-Backed Strategies to Dissolve Self-Criticism and Transform the Voice in Your Head,” highlights much of that research….