Self-Compassion… The New Self-Care

When we hear the phrase “self-care,” most of us picture bubble baths, yoga classes, or carving out an hour to finally read that book on our nightstand. And while those things have their place, if we stop there, we miss the deeper, sustaining work that helps us thrive.

What I’ve learned in my own healing and my work with clients is this: self-care without self-compassion can feel more like another to-do list item when it’s really a relationship to nurture.

Kristen Neff, a leading researcher on self-compassion, defines it simply as treating ourselves with the same warmth, understanding, and care we’d offer a close friend. Sounds obvious, right? Yet so many of us struggle to extend that kindness inward. Instead, we run ourselves ragged, push through exhaustion, and when we finally pause, we judge ourselves for not doing enough.

Here’s the truth: self-compassion is the soil out of which real self-care grows.

Self-compassion says, I see you just as you are. 
Self-compassion leans in to our human frailty with curiosity and kindness.  

It says, I am worthy of rest and renewal, not because I earned it, but because I’m human.
Self-compassion says, Even when I fall short, I don’t have to turn on myself—I can soften, reset, and begin again.

Dr. Neff’s research has shown that self-compassion is linked to lower anxiety and depression, greater resilience, and even stronger motivation. It’s not about letting ourselves off the hook—it’s about finding a kinder, more sustainable path forward.

This fall, as we move back into routines and rhythms, I’m leaning into this idea: What if self-care wasn’t just about the plan, but about the posture we take toward ourselves?

That’s exactly what we’ll be exploring at the Self-Care Workshop on Saturday, October 11th here in Nashville. Alongside my dear friends Ally Fallon and Koula Callahan, we’ll spend the day blending writing, movement, and Enneagram work to help you create a sustainable rhythm of care rooted in compassion. Think of it as a reset button for your mind, body, and spirit—a chance to practice being gentle with yourself while also building a plan that actually works for your life.

Because at the end of the day, bubble baths are lovely. But it’s self-compassion that carries us through.

I’d love for you to join us.

Register here for the Self-Care Workshop on Oct. 11th

Love & Gratitude, 

Katie