Yin, Yang and Self Compassion

When stress is piling up, it can feel overwhelming and block our ability to clearly see any way forward. Often, physical signs come up such as tunnel vision, a tight chest, ringing in the ears, headaches or perhaps your belly summersaults. 

At worst, there are panic attacks, shaking, numbness, cold shivers, spontaneous sweating, numb fingers, racing thoughts and dream disturbed sleeps.

As an acupuncturist, I see these signs of stress in my patients nearly every day. I typically stay in the room during acupuncture to add reiki or cranio sacral therapy or guided meditation to treatments that need a little extra care. I want to ensure patients remain comfortable as their meridians open and stress begins to dissipate, especially when our open heart is in a vulnerable state. 

The yin aspects of self compassion are about being present with ourselves in a kind way. Learning to self soothe, to speak kindly to ourselves and validate our experience goes a long way towards emotional health. All too often, we are angry or embarrassed to feel our hurt. It seems easier to rush past our true feelings, rather than showing ourselves the kindness we would offer a friend. The yang aspects of self compassion are about honouring our the whole being. Many of us know several ways to take better care of our health (eating whole foods, exercise, sleep), yet we resist starting and following through due to negative self talk. Using loving energy for self protection, for providing for ourselves and to motivate ourselves are also essential aspects of self care.