The integration of self-compassion and self-awareness: A systematic analysis
- The integration of self-compassion and self-awareness: A systematic analysis
- Theoretical framework and neurobiological foundations of self-compassion and self-awareness
- Key neurobiological components of self-compassion and self-awareness:
- Psychological mechanisms of self-compassion and self-awareness:
- Effects
- Self-compassion and self-awareness – how does it work?
- Attention regulation
- Emotional processing
- Behaviour-based implementation
- Conclusion
Around 70% of people have significant difficulties with self-compassion, especially in times of increased stress or emotional difficulties. However, self-compassion is crucial for psychological well-being. That’s why this article is about the theoretical foundations, the neurobiological mechanisms and the practical application of self-awareness, self-compassion and acceptance.
Theoretical framework and neurobiological foundations of self-compassion and self-awareness
Self-compassion, defined as the ability to maintain a non-judgemental and understanding attitude towards oneself in times of perceived inadequacy or failure, works through several interconnected neurobiological systems. Neurobiology shows that self-compassion and self-awareness activate the autonomic nervous system, primarily a part that facilitates social engagement and emotional regulation. This activation pattern is in marked contrast to the sympathetic arousal that characterises self-critical states.
Key neurobiological components of self-compassion and self-awareness:
- Vegetative activation (vagal stimulation)
- Reduction in the feeling of threat (lower reactivity of the amygdala)
- Better judgement of situations (increased prefrontal cortical regulation of emotional reactions)
- Calming (increased release of oxytocin, which facilitates self-soothing)
Psychological mechanisms of self-compassion and self-awareness:
Self-compassion is complex and involves several different, interrelated components. There are clear links between strong self-compassion and a reduction in anxiety or depression, increased emotional resilience and improved interpersonal relationships.
Effects
Self-awareness is particularly important for:
- Anxiety disorders
- depressive symptoms
- Trauma reactions
- Stress-related and psychosomatic complaints
Self-compassion and self-awareness – how does it work?
It depends on various key areas:
Attention regulation
- The ability to look over your own shoulder (metacognitive monitoring ability)
- Awareness of the present moment
Emotional processing
- Recognising and accepting emotional states
- Control of emotions (adaptive emotion regulation)
Behaviour-based implementation
- Systematic practice
- Incorporating self-awareness into everyday life
Conclusion
Overall, self-compassion and self-awareness serve to increase well-being. They help to challenge negative self-beliefs and replace them with realistic ones, thus stabilising self-worth – a prerequisite for successful personal growth.