How to be kind to yourself through RAIN ...

It's an unprecedented time. And as one of my clients just mentioned, the shifting of the date from '20 to '21, hasn't shifted our reality.

Yet, at the same time, we are putting added pressure on ourselves to meet our new resolutions- to shift habits, to show up differently, to be visionary and to think big, to journal daily, to find greater balance etc. 

Our day to day stress levels are already exponentially higher than ever before. Resolutions and goals are critical, but not if they are paralyzing us with even more pressure.

Tara Brach, a brilliant meditation teacher, introduced the concept of RAIN as a tool to practice greater self compassion. I've started to share this concept with my clients and they are embracing it due to its simplicity and impact. So what is it?

R: Recognize what is happening - What emotions and sensations are present?

A: Allow life to be just as it is - Pause and accept. It is ok. I am enough.

I: Investigate with curiosity - What is painful? What beliefs are present? What sensations do you notice?

N: Nurture yourself - Allow the part of you that is most vulnerable to be seen, to feel safe and to feel loved. Place a hand on your heart. Take a deep breath.

I appreciate the structure and the easy way it brings more mindfulness and self compassion into my life. Even the power of simply pausing is transformational.

What is working for you?