Ageing and self-compassion

Dr. Kristen Neff identifies 3 elements of self-compassion:

• Self-kindness versus self-judgement
• Common humanity versus isolation
• Mindfulness versus over-identification

This means consciously extending kindness to self, understanding that there is common humanity in suffering and having the ability to pay attention to the present moment without judgement. People high in self compassion may be more likely to act proactively, accept assistance from others, adapt to change and take responsibility for their own personal wellbeing.