How to Be Kinder to Yourself | Compassion Focused Therapy Explained techniques

How to Be Kinder to Yourself | Compassion Focused Therapy Explained techniques In this episode, Dr. Chris Irons, a clinical psychologist and expert in Compassion Focused Therapy (CFT), explains how to cultivate self-compassion and overcome self-criticism, shame, and difficult emotions. He explores how our inner voice, emotional tone, and self-judgment can impact our mental well-being, and why learning to be kind and caring toward ourselves is essential for growth. Dr. Chris Irons discusses the principles of CFT, showing how it integrates cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness, attachment theory, neuroscience, evolutionary psychology, and social psychology to help people manage anxiety, fear, sadness, anger, and other intense emotions. He explains that practicing self-compassion is not weakness, but requires strength, courage, and wisdom, much like firefighters show compassion through their actions. The episode covers practical strategies for improving your emotional regulation, understanding the evolutionary purpose of emotions, and practicing mindfulness, compassionate self-talk, and compassion-based exercises. Dr. Chris Irons also highlights his book Difficult Emotions, which teaches how to understand and work with emotions that are too intense or too muted, and the Compassionate Mind App, which brings CFT practices into everyday life through short, interactive sessions. Whether you’re exploring therapy for the first time, practicing CBT, or simply looking to reduce stress, anxiety, and self-criticism, this episode offers evidence-based insights and actionable tools to help you develop a more compassionate, caring, and supportive relationship with yourself. If you want to transform your inner dialogue, better understand your emotions, and start practicing self-compassion in a practical, research-backed way, this episode is for you. 📲 Resources: 🌍 www.balancedminds.com – Dr. Irons' organization offering CFT-based therapy, training, and resources. 🌍 www.drchrisirons.com – Learn more about Dr. Irons’ work, books, and research. Learn more about therapy, mindfulness and mental health on my website https://wendycastelino.com/ WATCH MORE VIDEOS    • The Real Psychology of Motivation: How to ...      • ACT Therapy Explained: How It Helps You Ov...      • The Real Psychology of Motivation: How to ...   0:00 – Introduction & Dr. Chris Irons’ background 2:08 – What is Compassion Focused Therapy (CFT)? 5:39 – The power of self-compassion 15:56 – Understanding and managing difficult emotions 35:12 – Using apps and tools to practice CFT 41:26 – Research-backed benefits of CFT #CompassionFocusedTherapy #CFT #SelfCompassion #MentalHealth #ClinicalPsychology #DrChrisIrons #EmotionalWellbeing #Mindfulness #Compassion #Therapy #Psychology #MentalHealthAwareness #SelfCare #EmotionalIntelligence #DifficultEmotions #CBT #PersonalGrowth #Mindset #SelfImprovement #Wellbeing #PsychologyTips #StressManagement #AnxietyRelief #EmotionalHealing