One of the questions that pops up in our inbox occasionally is, “What’s so special about the Self-compassion course? What makes it different from MBSR or PNT?”
Perhaps you’ve taken MBSR and want to go deeper, but you’re not sure if Positive Neuroplasticity or Self-compassion is the “right” next step.
Or you’re brand-new to our programs and not sure where to start.
In one sense, it actually doesn’t matter. All our programs include elements of both mindfulness practice and self-compassion work. There’s no “right” next step as whichever step you take is the right one for you.
But being human in today’s decision-saturated world, it’s also totally understandable that you’d like the Self-compassion course explained in a nutshell!
So we asked Megan to say a few words to clarify the unique benefits of this course, and what distinguishes it from our other programs. Here’s what she came up with:
The 6-week Self-compassion course is a specific in-depth training in Self-compassion, so although it is touched on in both Positive Neuroplasticity Training (PNT) and Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction (MBSR), this is a much deeper dive.
Where PNT is bit more like brain training or boot camp for the brain, the Self-compassion course has been described by participants as more “heart-centred.”
The material helps us work with specific problems or challenges showing up in our lives, particularly where there is a negative or discouraging internal voice or tone.
One of the really useful things people like in the Self-compassion course is that each week there are micro-exercises you can do in your day to meet particular problems or tender spots with.
For example, if someone has a very harsh inner critic, there’s a different exercise you can try each week to work with it as it’s happening.
Usually people find that one or two of these exercises really hit the mark.
Also, I think one can never have too much compassion. It is an infinitely valuable inner resource to build.
~ Megan Layton, Director, 2024
Learn more about the 6-week Self-compassion course or check upcoming course dates
