Supporting Teens in Building Resilience and Inner Strength
What is Mindful Self-Compassion?
Mindfulness is bringing non-judgmental awareness to the present moment. Self-Compassion is treating ourselves with the same kindness and compassion as we would a good friend.
Benefits of Mindful Self-Compassion
- Becoming aware of our negative internal dialogue.
- Meeting moments of struggle with kindness instead of harsh self criticism.
- Increasing motivation and inner strength needed to meet life’s challenges and obstacles with our compassionate voice.
Mindful Self-Compassion for Teens Program
Our thoughts have a powerful impact on our perception and wellbeing. Negative thoughts lead to increased stress and unhappiness. The MSC-Teens program explores how our inner critical voice may contribute to these challenges and teaches strategies to improve our internal dialog. Learning how to express our thoughts in a more compassionate way leads to a more positive view and lower stress.
The program begins by creating a safe space in which teens can explore how to treat themselves with the same kindness they would show a friend. Topics include:
- The difference between self-compassion and self-esteem, and why self-compassion is more reliable,
- The role of the inner critical voice,
- Getting in touch with our compassionate voice,
- Identifying our core values, and how we can treat ourselves compassionately even when we don’t meet our own standards
We explore these and other topics through exercises, videos, discussions, reflections, meditations, and movement practices. The program wraps up with looking at the power of gratitude as a way to focus our thoughts on the positive aspects of our lives.
This program was formerly known as Making Friends with Yourself.
Summer Program
Starts on Thursday, July 7th, 2022 (Meets on Thursdays & Sundays for 4 consecutive weeks)
Ends on Sunday, July 30th, 2022
2:30pm to 4:00pm PST
Delivered over Zoom
Sign Up
A fee of $360 per participant will be collected for the MSC-T (formerly known as MFY) program once your registration has been confirmed. A limited number of scholarships may be available through our community partner Taarika Foundation.
For this investment in your teen and in yourself, you will receive:
- Eight 90 minute sessions with two experienced instructors,
- Weekly emails to participants and parents describing each session,
- Weekly recordings of meditations participants can reference for practice; if they choose,
- Access to instructors for questions and support throughout the eight weeks,
Register for either or both programs by filling out the form at this link.
Teachers: Marina Barnes and Alex Espinosa
For more information on our team, click here.
“I liked learning the various coping techniques to help me de-stress and calm down. I also felt that the program helped me be kinder towards myself.” – Participant
“I’ve learned to appreciate more of what I have in my life.” – Participant
“It helped me accept a lot of things about myself I can’t control.” – Participant
“This was beneficial for teens receiving eating disorder treatment. Groups were moderated in ways that supported the participants in feeling comfortable.” – Parent