Self-Compassion Practices & Backdraft: When Being Good to Yourself Feels Bad [29]

There's an interesting obstacle to self-compassion known as backdraft. This is a fire science term that psychology also uses to describe a pretty uncomfortable feeling that can arise when we open ourselves up and let in some self-compassion. Listen in for how this phenomenon takes shape and three tips to ease it so you can continue practicing this essential element of self-compassion.  p.s. This isn't about the 1991 movie, Backdraft (though who doesn't love a De Niro flick?!).   Key Takeaways (see full transcript below): Love reveals anything unlike itself... the brain is wired to present all the ways we haven't been compassionate. We have been trained to be hard on ourselves. That means it's logical if backdraft is coming up for you. The only antidote is self-compassion.  Note that if you're experiencing a lot of backdraft, it is important to get support from a practitioner or trusted individual who can help you through.  Three tips to consider to help ease backdraft:  Stop, then yield. Feel it to heal it.  Name it to tame it. About: The Joy Lab Podcast is an Ambie-nominated podcast that blends science and soul to help you cope better with stress, anxiety, and depression. It's hosted by integrative psychiatrist Dr. Henry Emmons and holistic mental health researcher Dr. Aimee Prasek. The podcast is best paired with the Joy Lab Program. Bonus: spread some joy and keep this podcast ad-free by donating (Joy Lab is powered by the nonprofit Pathways North and your donations are tax-deductible).   Listen & follow the Joy Lab Podcast on your favorite listening app: Spotify | Apple | YouTube   Like and follow Joy Lab on Socials: Instagram | LinkedIn   Links Mentioned: Mindful Self-Compassion Program   Please remember that this content is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not intended to provide medical advice and is not a replacement for advice and treatment from a medical professional. Please consult your doctor or other qualified health professional before beginning any diet change, supplement, or lifestyle program. Please see our terms for more information.   If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, help is available. Call the NAMI HelpLine: 1-800-950-6264 available Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. - 10 p.m., ET. OR text "HelpLine" to 62640 or email NAMI at [email protected]. Visit NAMI for more. You can also call or text SAMHSA at 988 or chat 988lifeline.org.