Self-compassion isn’t about escaping your darkness but learning to love yourself there. Consider these self-compassion affirmations healing gifts and reflections of the stars inside of you — the light you keep, even in the midst of darkness and mystery. Plus, I have something special to share with you that’ll nudge you closer to peace within (the unshakable kind).

The willingness to accept painful truths about ourselves is a seed of self-compassion. Self-compassion is the seed of a deeper connection with the wonder of being alive.

Self-acceptance says, “Nonetheless, here I am, claiming love as my name.”

Self-compassion asks, “How can I love you better, dear heart?”

Self-love is simply appreciating the miracle of your own being.

“But if a mirror ever makes you sad you should know that it does not know you.” — Kabir

Since loving thyself is potentially one of the most difficult practices (definitely not a one-time event), there’s something you need to know about before you read these affirmations:

Sleep Rituals: 100 Practices for a Deep and Peaceful Sleep, my third book, is being released tomorrow! Please, do yourself a favor and get this book — or gift it to a friend in need of deep healing. Like my other books, this one was born from my own healing journey.

Now, I know what you’re thinking: what does sleep have to do with self-compassion? A lot, it seems, especially if you approach it as a practice in love.

This book is about sleep but, then again, it’s about much more than that. It’s about giving yourself the space and opportunity to practice self-awareness, mindfulness, reflection, forgiveness, spirituality, hope, and self-compassion.

Sleep Rituals is a chance to delight in the magnificence of your own being here.

That’s why several of the following self-compassion affirmations are inspired by or taken directly from the book.

6 Self-Compassion Affirmations to Nudge You Closer to the Wonder of Your Own Being

1. I am ready and willing to practice being more compassionate.

I am willing to pause for a fresh new thought, one that serves me better. I am ready to let some light in. I close my eyes and leave dark thoughts behind while I enjoy this special space just for me and my breath.

2. One heartbeat at a time, I can feel better.

Whatever it is I’m going through right now, one shift in attention can make a tremendous difference. Every moment of self-acceptance is a victory. This journey is rich with purpose.

“The journey into self-love and self-acceptance must begin with self-examination… until you take the journey of self-reflection, it is almost impossible to grow or learn in life.” – Iyanla Vanzant

3. Self-compassion fuels my passion.

Self-compassion helps me respond to stress in creative and fruitful ways. I am kind to myself because the more love I give to myself, the more love I breathe into my life. This method and perspective feeds my dreams, goals, desires, and needs.

4. I am here to experience the wonder of my own being.

I am made of stars and earth too. I am a bit of all things — a soul. The universe longs to experience itself through me. I humbly and wholeheartedly praise every bit of the wonder that is me, here, now.

"Genuine care is closely related to compassion and is lovely when laced with patience and curiosity." — Sleep Rituals

5. My physical presence is worthy of celebration.

My body is always showing up for me, listening and responding to me, doing its best to offer me a full experience of life on earth. I approach my physical self with that same level of commitment and care. Deep love and appreciation wakes up in me.

6. I answer pain with loving attention.

Where I see the need for resolution, I also hear the call for my loving attention. It is through my unconditional loving presence that deep healing occurs. I find restoration and renewal in the expanse of my open heart.

“Be patient with yourself. Self-growth is tender; it’s holy ground. There’s no greater investment.” — Stephen Covey

Tell me:

If you gave yourself a dose of compassion instead of judgment, how would your life change?

Tell me in the comments. I ready every single one, and I'd love to know!

Enjoy yourself.

All love,

Jen

P.S. Don’t miss the release of my newest book, Sleep Rituals, tomorrow! It’s brimming with starry wisdom and accessible pathways to real relaxation, deep healing, and a more loving world — from the inside out. From the final sentence in the book: “Enjoy the beauty sleep that comes when you honor yourself.”