Researchers Reveal How Self-Compassion Lowers Heart Disease Risk

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The team also accounted for other factors contributing to cardiovascular diseases, such as exercise, smoking habits, and depression. However, the results remained the same despite other lifestyle factors influencing the study.

“These findings underscore the importance of practicing kindness and compassion, particularly towards yourself,” said Thurston. “We are all living through extraordinarily stressful times, and our research suggests that self-compassion is essential for both our mental and physical health.”

Self-Care Techniques for Better Overall Health

In a nutshell, we’re tough on ourselves, and this stress tends to show up as physical or mental disorders. The mind can only take so much before it becomes overwhelming, so it’s crucial to love yourself. Please do your best and leave it at that; don’t play the comparison game. Below, we’ll give you some simple techniques to follow for improved wellbeing.

• Meditate or practice mindfulness. Meditation doesn’t have a universal blueprint to follow; instead, it’s simply about increasing your inner awareness. You can do this by sitting down and watching your breath, for example. Or, some people find that chanting a mantra or reciting positive affirmations aloud or mentally calms them. There are thousands of YouTube channels with guided meditations if you’re interested. However, some people prefer silent meditations as it helps them concentrate better.
• Eat foods that nourish your soul. It’s easy to grab a quick meal after work or school. However, fast food and processed foods eventually take a toll on your mind and body. Practicing self-compassion means loving yourself enough to eat a healthy diet consisting of fresh, whole foods. You’ll feel mentally sharper and calmer by eating from nature as well.
• Limit time on social media or any technology. We’re overwhelmed with tech in this modern world, and it’s starting to show. The mind becomes restless and agitated when it’s overstimulated, so give it a rest. The world will keep spinning while you take a break, so don’t feel like you’re missing out. In reality, our souls miss out when we don’t pay enough attention to them.

Final Thoughts on How Self-Compassion Lowers Heart Disease Risk

Do you practice self-compassion? According to a new study, if so, it just might lower your risk of heart disease and other cardiovascular problems. Many previous studies have demonstrated how mindfulness and self-love benefit psychological health. However, few have shown the physical effects of being kind to yourself.

Now, scientists know that your mental state affects your body in tangible ways. As such, it’s important to practice self-compassion and tell yourself that you’re enough. Don’t let this world tell you any different because it’s your opinion of yourself that matters most.