Two wings of recovery: due diligence and compassion
Many clients I work with do well with the ‘due diligence’ part of recovery. On a regular basis they attend therapy, 12 Step meetings, work with a sponsor, work the 12 Steps, pray and meditate, etc. But when it comes to compassion (the other wing of recovery), they struggle. For many clients a significant part of treatment is opening to self-appreciation and being compassionate with oneself.
Basic elements of compassion:
- forgiveness
- empathy
- acceptance
- connecting with the Inner Ally
*recommended readings: Radical Acceptance by Tara Brach and Self-Compassion by Kristin Neff