Cory is yet another person in the same healing space as me…that I have yet to meet in person. Cory is a retired Airborne Infantryman turned yogi and is a huge supporter of MalaforVets. In fact, Cory even owns a yoga studio, so if you’re ever in the KC area, go check out Honor Yoga and tell Cory HI!

Compassion is… being kind to yourself.

In the Yoga Sutras, Compassion is defined as a “shared feeling,” a level of sympathy so deep that it inspires action to alleviate another’s pain and sorrow. I have come to agree with this definition but I think sometimes we forget that there are two different lenses for compassion. When we think about compassion we most often think about compassion towards others. While this is important and necessary, we sometimes forget the other, more important lens: compassion for self.

We rationalize that it is selfish, that others are more in need of our compassion, and all the while neglect directing that compassion to ourselves. I would argue that this is where compassion should start. Most of us have been on a plane at least once in our lives and have probably heard this during the pre-flight demonstration, “Should the cabin lose pressure, oxygen masks will drop from the overhead area. Please place the mask over your own mouth and nose before assisting others.” 

Why is that? At first, it sounds selfish right? Shouldn’t you ensure your kids have their masks on first? The reason behind it is that if you are not getting what you need (oxygen) you will not be able to help others because you will eventually pass out. 

Compassion towards self works the same way. If you give yourself what you need (compassion) then you will be rejuvenated and able to give it to others. You should treat yourself like you would a good friend: noticing your troubles, empathizing with yourself, and offering kindness and understanding. Put another way, it means being able to relate to yourself in a way that is forgiving and accepting.  

So what does this do for us? Practicing compassion towards one’s self has been associated with more happiness, optimism, and positive emotions as well as reduced anxiety and depression. Does this sound like someone who would be in a better place and mindset to offer compassion to others?

Start small but start today. Treat yourself as you would your best friend and be kind; not only to others but to yourself.  #StayCompassionateOutThere

As someone who was wiser than me said before:

If you seek Wisdom, Be Silent

If you seek Peace, Be Still

If you seek Love,  Be Yourself