Introduction

What is self-compassion? Perhaps you've been wondering about the benefits of self compassion and how you can begin to develop it. If so, this episode is for you.

Join Shannon and clinical psychologist Chris Irons as they explore compassion-focused therapy (CFT) and its application in the industry. They discuss the interplay between our primal instincts and thought patterns, and how societal factors shape problematic eating behaviours. Discover how compassion can transform your approach to health and fitness and promote sustainable well-being. Explore the three flows of compassion and the profound impact of self-compassion on overall health.

About The Guest

Chris is a Clinical Psychologist with many years of experience working in the NHS. He  is now co-director of Balanced Minds where he provides Compassion Focused therapy and training courses. He is the author of a number of Compassion Focused Books & co-creator of The Self-Compassion App.

This Episode Is A Must Listen For:

• Professionals working in the health and fitness industry, such as personal trainers, nutritionists, or coaches, can gain valuable insights into incorporating compassion into their practice.
• Individuals interested in understanding human behaviour, emotions, and thought patterns.
• People looking to enhance their own well-being, develop self-compassion, or learn practical strategies for personal growth.
• Anyone interested in the intersection of compassion and politics.

Key takeaways:

• CFT is discussed as a central focus of the interview, emphasising the use of compassion to alleviate suffering and promote well-being and flourishing.
• The interview explores how unhelpful thinking patterns can arise due to the interplay between the old brain (basic motives and emotions) and the new brain (complex thinking and imagination).
• Societal factors, such as media images and societal expectations, on extreme eating behaviours driven by social threats is highlighted.
• The interview emphasises the importance of approaching exercise and eating from a caring and compassionate perspective, focusing on sustainable and balanced well-being.
• self-compassion is an important factor in achieving health, fitness goals and overall well-being.

Further Resources:

• Compassion Focused Therapy (CFT) books:
• "The Compassionate Mind: A New Approach to Life's Challenges" by Paul Gilbert
• "The Compassionate Mind Workbook: A Step-by-Step Guide to Developing Your Compassionate Self" by Chris Irons and Elaine Beaumont
• Compassionate Mind Training (CMT) resources:
• Balanced minds website
  
• Research articles mentioned:
  • Gilbert, P., & Procter, S. (2006). Compassionate mind training for people with high shame and self-criticism: Overview and pilot study of a group therapy approach. Clinical Psychology & Psychotherapy, 13(6), 353-379.
  • Neff, K. D. (2003). The development and validation of a scale to measure self-compassion. Self and Identity, 2(3), 223-250.
• Check these out next:
  • Be Kind to yourself is not good advice
  • Struggle with Self Criticism and Binge Eating?
  • Break the cycle of self criticism

Listen to the full episode to learn how to achieve your health and fitness goals with compassion.