Fierce Self-Compassion Book Study

Kristen Neff changed how we talk about self-care with her enormously popular first book, Self-Compassion (2011).  Now, 10 years and many studies later, she expands her body of work to explore a brand new take on self-compassion (2021). Although kindness and self – acceptance allow us to be with ourselves as we are, in our glorious imperfection, the desire to alleviate suffering at the heart of this mindset is not always gentle. Sometimes it is fierce! We must also act courageously in order to protect ourselves from harm and injustice, say no to others so we can meet our own needs, and motivate necessary change in ourselves and society. Gender roles demand that women be soft and nurturing, not angry or powerful. But like yin and yang, the energies of Fierce and tender self-compassion must be balanced for wholeness and well-being. Women must reclaim fierceness in order to create a healthier society and find lasting happiness.

Sessions:

1. Intro and overview of book; establishing Brave Space;
   Introduction: Caring Force, Self Compassion Scale (page 13).
2. Fundamentals of Self Compassion,
3. Yin and Yang of Self-Compassion (Tender and Fierce)
4. Gender and Self Compassion
5. Angry Women
6. The Caring Force of Anger
7. #Me, too!
8. Holding Ourselves Tenderly (Love, Connection, Presence)
9. Coping with Pain
10. Standing Strong (Bravery, Empowerment, Clarity, Boundaries)
11. Meeting Our Needs (Fulfillment, Balance, Authenticity,
12. Becoming Our Best Selves
13. Balance and Equality at Work
14. Caring for Others without Losing Ourselves
15. What we do for love
16. Becoming a Compassionate Mess; Conclusion