#sakura zen

[sakura-zen]

Experimental video for Butterfly Minds Not - a poem from "Sakura" by Rosemarie Bloom:

Check out the e-book (or KDP paperback): https://a.co/d/0emFwwf3

[sakura-zen]

Sometimes the point is to open your eyes

[sakura-zen]

Image sourced from the presentation: Self-Compassion in Psychotherapy by Tim Desmond

I Get It.

If you ever feel like you are entrenched in an emotion (or in any sort of distress), it helps to notice what you feel and: 1) Label the emotion/event; 2) Talk to yourself as if you were an ideal parent, or as you would a best friend.

Channel that voice, that part of you that is calm, clear and level-headed, smile, and simply tell yourself: "I get it" (or "I understand").

I get it. I understand. Powerful words. Practice saying that, as often as you need or feel like it. Then, carry on with whatever you are doing. If the distressing thought re-appears, re-engage in the same way.

I get it. I understand. I have to get back to doing __ but I absolutely get it. Visualize yourself giving a hug to yourself, or doing something kind for this person in front of you, so warm and caring and full of life.

You are creating a space for self-support while also giving yourself permission (or an opportunity) to keep moving forward, instead of bogging yourself down in the hopelessness of distress. Having your own back takes practice but it is oh so essential to carry on.

Repeat as often as needed or wanted.

You will always be your most secure attachment. Make it count. 🌸