Compassion Images
A collection of exercises that include compassion images to help clients gather an understanding of their image of compassion.
Individuals will be asked to express what their ideal depiction of compassion from another would be. They may be asked what compassion may look or sound like via facial expressions and tone of voice. They also have to associate words that connect to this image they created, such as warm or strong.
The person may also be advised to play the role of a deeply compassionate person and project that image through facial expressions, tone of voice, posture, and words. Clients are asked to picture compassionate images during moments they may usually be self-critical.
Compassion Behaviour Tasks
This is a form of exposure therapy. The client is exposed to the new behaviours that are being learned in therapy. They are directed to practice encouraging and sensitive expressions to themselves during fearful or awkward situations. This can help individuals learn to be kind to themselves during difficult situations.
These types of tasks are also important for clients to accept positive emotions. If an individual has become prone to feelings of guilt or fear during enjoyable moments, they can begin to practice more positive feelings at these times.
What Compassion-Focused Therapy Helps With ?
CFT helps an individual develop kinder approaches in how to view themselves and interact with others, void of blame and criticism.
CFT can be beneficial for those seeking support with the following conditions and concerns:
Benefits of Compassion-Focused Therapy
CFT strategically trains an individual to develop skills that strengthen compassionate thinking, which enhances feelings of self-validation and empathy.
Compassion is considered caring about the suffering of others, but it also means self-compassion, which is being kind to yourself. According to self-compassion expert psychologist, Kristen Neff, self-compassion is actually correlated with compassion for others and overall well-being.
Compassion for others and oneself is associated with greater mental and physical health benefits and enhances the overall quality of life. It enables positive thinking habits, promotes emotional regulation, reduces stress and improves relationship quality. Compassion is also linked to less anxiety, depression, and self-criticism. Additionally, compassion can produce healthier immune responses and helps maintain blood pressure and cortisol levels.