Build Up, Not Beat Up: Self-Compassion Through Mindfulness

by Fiona Coward

In my last blog, I wrote about the difficulty in being kind to ourselves. However, we often don’t realise how harsh we’re being on ourselves until we’re already deep in self-criticism. But what if we could pre-empt these negative patterns before they even begin? This is where the power of mindfulness comes in.

Take charge with mindfulness

Mindfulness isn’t just about being present in the moment; it’s about creating a gentle, compassionate space within ourselves where we can thrive. If you incorporate these simple practices into your daily routine, you start to nurture self-compassion before the negativity has a chance to take hold.

Start your day with a simple mantra:

“I approach myself with kindness today.”

As you wake up in the morning, take a moment to sit quietly, close your eyes, and repeat this mantra a few times. This sets a compassionate tone for the day ahead and helps to prime your mind for positivity.

Don't you feel better just saying that out loud?

Repetition, repetition

Another powerful practice is to pause throughout your day. Choose a few moments—perhaps when you have your morning coffee, during a short break, or before a meal—where you consciously remind yourself, “I am worthy of compassion.”

This consistent reinforcement gradually shifts your inner dialogue, making it more natural to respond to yourself with kindness rather than criticism.

You begin to build a buffer of self-compassion that protects you from the automatic negative thoughts that may arise. When moments of self-judgment do occur, you’ll find that you’re more prepared to meet them with understanding and care.

You don't want to just react to negativity— you want to rather actively nurture a compassionate relationship with yourself every day. When you create this foundation, you set the stage for lasting personal growth and healing.

As you incorporate these simple yet powerful practices, BodyTalk can deepen your shifts by addressing the hidden patterns that contribute to self-judgment. With this extra support, you can strengthen your ability to maintain a compassionate, balanced mindset throughout your day.

Until next time,
Fiona Coward - BodyTalk Practitioner

There's never been a better time for a Mind & Body Reboot

Get a helping hand in releasing toxicity from your body and mind - book a BodyTalk Session (in-person or online). I'm in Somerset West, Western Cape.

Curious about the state of your wellness? Sign up for this FREE workbook – “My Holistic Health Check-In”.

The new, lighter you, will thank you.

< Previous Post
Next Post >
What is BodyTalk?
What is BodyTalk?
F5 BodyTalk Sessions
BodyTalk Sessions
F5 BodyTalk Book Now
Book Now

“Fiona's practice was highly recommended to me by someone whose health I had seen solidly improve. I was not certain what I needed, except to be 'unstuck'. My first two F5 BodyTalk sessions with Fiona really boosted me up a level. Phenomenal difference before and after. I am hugely grateful.”

— L.P —

“BodyTalk has been such a wonderful treatment for me. When I started I had glandular fever, underactive adrenal glands and was constantly exhausted. After seeing Fiona for only a few treatments, I started to feel better...”

— K.J —

“BodyTalk has taught me to listen better to my physical body. I often wonder if living in one’s head and not paying attention to the messages of one’s body is a cause of many of our health problems. If you seek wellness, I encourage you to listen to what your body may be telling you...”

— M.A —

“The body is an amazing intuitive machine. What I like about BodyTalk is that the practitioner facilitates communication between the client and their body. The body knows exactly what it needs to do to correct its imbalances and to heal itself...”

— J.C —

“Thought I should let you know, I've been the Duracell Bunny since I left you - I've done so much work!!! Thank you!”

— M.B —

“Thank you for the session! I feel quite good, far more relaxed and at ease. I can feel inner peace. I can sense the feeling of how it is to "let go". So wonderful, thank you!”

— K.K —

“I felt so good over the weekend. I felt more confident about my feelings, and I felt lighter and even a bit more creative!”

— R.S —

“Fiona is absolutely amazing! I have had two sessions with her and have found them to be incredibly relaxing, and insightful. I have been dealing with some very stressful events, and the sessions with Fiona have helped me put them into perspective and move forward. I can't recommend a session with her enough.”

— T.K —

“Fiona @ F5 BodyTalk is a specialist in her field. She truly knows the human body and brings solutions to things that might block you from reaching your full potential. Invest in a session and it will be transformational. Thank you Fiona.”

— S.V.W —

“Wow had an awesome session with Fiona. You are a remarkable practitioner and I would recommend you to everybody.”

— I.D —

View More Testimonials