Embodied Self-Compassion with Jessica Starr

Suffering is inevitable but resistance is optional. Buddhism calls suffering the first arrow, the one that is out of our control. Our resistance to suffering is the second arrow, the one we choose to shoot at ourselves when we’re already hurting. Whether it is self-criticism for not being stronger, or struggling with questions like “why me?,” resistance is an understandable response when times are hard. Unfortunately this resistance makes an already challenging time even harder. There is a different way! 

Self-Compassion practices teach us how to be in relationship with our own suffering in a way that reduces our suffering and shifts the physiology of the body and brain towards safety and support. We will explore the spiritual understanding of these practices as direct access to the everpresent loving awareness within. 

You will leave this afternoon course with a powerful toolkit for resilience. What you will gain:

• Accessible "educational" insights on the science of self-compassion

• An understanding of the nervous system response to stress

• Embodied practices: Gentle meditations, soothing self-touch, mindful movement, and guided reflection to integrate the learning

• A deeper connection to the compassionate witness within

• A safe, sacred space: We welcome your presence exactly as you are—with no pressure to share

• Lasting change: These powerful practices offer evidence-based transformation through long-term habits that shift neural pathways, creating a foundation for lifelong resilience and well-being

Registration and payment - sliding scale $33 - $75