ABSTRACT
Self-compassion is key to self-care and is therefore central to the self-care framework shared in this book. It enables you to think about yourself when it comes to caring for you. In turn, caring for yourself enables you to care for others better. This approach is healthier than putting all your energy into caring for others and forgetting yourself.
In essence, self-compassion is being kinder to ourselves. In doing so we are less judgmental of ourselves and more aware that everybody is trying to be the best they can be. Self-compassion is very closely associated with mindfulness because it centres on being more aware. For teachers self-compassion can be challenging. We often get caught up in caring for others, especially our students, which often leaves us with low energy, fewer resources and little time for ourselves. In this chapter I unpack self-compassion, explain why it is important and introduce strategies and practices for your toolbox for self-care. This will highlight that caring for you is an essential aspect of your self-care. It is a part of showing yourself self-love.
