Self-Criticism vs. Self-Compassion

Self-criticism is the tendency to evaluate oneself harshly. When we criticize ourselves, we tap into the body’s threat-defense system (sometimes referred to as our reptilian brain). Self-compassion involves acting the same way towards yourself when you are having a difficult time, failing, or noticing something you don’t like about yourself.

• Self-criticism is often our first reaction when things go wrong. The threat-defense system is the quickest and most easily triggered among the many ways we can react to perceived danger. 
• With self-criticism, we are both the attacker and the attacked. Feeling threatened puts stress on the mind and body. Chronic stress can cause anxiety and depression, so chronic self-criticism destroys emotional and physical well-being. 
• We fight ourselves (self-criticism), we flee from others (isolation), or we freeze (rumination): Compassion, including self-compassion, is linked to the mammalian care system. That’s why being compassionate to ourselves when we feel inadequate makes us feel safe and cared for, like a child held in a warm embrace. 
• Self-compassion helps to downregulate the threat response. When a threat to our self-concept triggers the stress response (fight-flight-freeze), we will turn on ourselves in an unholy trinity of reactions. 

Self-Compassion Meditation? There are many benefits of practicing self-compassion meditation. These benefits have been confirmed by scientific research.

• Emotional Well-Being: Self-compassionate people tend to have a better outlook on life. In general, they love themselves, but not in a selfish way. They love themselves the same way they love their partner or family member. They love themselves unconditionally.
• Physical Health: Self-compassion leads to a better lifestyle and, therefore, better health. People who cultivate self-compassion eat healthily, engage in physical exercise or activity, and have good hygiene. 
• Mental Health: Self-compassion also leads to better mental health. Self-compassionate people know how to manage stress and can focus better. They are more optimistic and motivated and feel a more significant social connectedness.

You can email me if you have a question at shahid@drshahidsheik.com.

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