Mindfulness, Self-Compassion, and Compassionate Inquiry are approaches based on research and tradition that has proven their effectiveness. They are rooted in common sense, and are supported by practitioners, schools, and publications. There are many resources available — here are a few I recommend if you would like to learn more about any of these modalities.
Learning & Growth
Resources
Mindfulness
Mindfulness is the practice of deliberately paying attention to the present moment — our thoughts, feelings, and sensations — with openness and without judgment. It is the foundation of much of the work we do together, and a skill that can be cultivated by anyone.
Websites
- Mindful.org
A leading publication offering articles, guided practices, and the latest research on mindfulness in everyday life. ↗ Visit
- Center for Mindfulness, UMass Medical School
The birthplace of Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) — the most widely researched mindfulness programme in the world. ↗ Visit
Books
- Full Catastrophe Living
The definitive guide to MBSR — practical, grounded, and deeply transformative.
- Wherever You Go, There You Are
An accessible and reflective introduction to mindfulness for everyday life.
- The Miracle of Mindfulness
A gentle, beautifully written classic on bringing mindful awareness into ordinary moments.
Videos
- Jon Kabat-Zinn: Defining Mindfulness
A clear and compelling introduction to mindfulness by the creator of MBSR. Widely available on YouTube.
- Thich Nhat Hanh: The Art of Mindful Living
A moving exploration of how mindfulness transforms daily experience. Available on YouTube.
Nonviolent Communication
Nonviolent Communication (NVC), developed by Dr. Marshall Rosenberg, is a communication framework grounded in empathy and honesty. It teaches us to express ourselves clearly and to listen to others in a way that fosters connection rather than conflict — a profound shift for parents, teens, and anyone seeking more authentic relationships.
Websites
Books
- Nonviolent Communication: A Language of Life
The foundational text — clear, practical, and transformative. Essential reading for anyone wanting to communicate with more empathy.
- Raising Children Compassionately
A concise and practical application of NVC principles specifically for parenting.
- The Surprising Purpose of Anger
A short, insightful exploration of how NVC reframes anger as a signal pointing to unmet needs.
Videos
- Marshall Rosenberg: NVC Introduction
Marshall Rosenberg's live workshop recordings are among the most compelling introductions to NVC available. Widely accessible on YouTube.
- Marshall Rosenberg: Making Life Wonderful
A full-length workshop that brings NVC to life with warmth, humour, and depth. Available on YouTube.
Self-Compassion
Self-compassion means treating yourself with the same warmth and understanding you would offer a good friend in a moment of suffering or failure. Research by Dr. Kristin Neff has shown it to be one of the most powerful foundations for emotional wellbeing.
Websites
- Self-Compassion.org — Dr. Kristin Neff
The definitive resource on self-compassion research, with free guided meditations, exercises, and a self-compassion test. ↗ Visit
- Greater Good Science Center, UC Berkeley
Research-based articles and practices on compassion, gratitude, and emotional resilience. ↗ Visit
Books
- Self-Compassion: The Proven Power of Being Kind to Yourself
The foundational text on self-compassion — clear, research-backed, and full of practical exercises.
- The Mindful Path to Self-Compassion
A warm and accessible guide to freeing yourself from destructive thoughts and emotions.
- Fierce Self-Compassion
Explores the active, protective side of self-compassion — how to stand up for yourself with kindness.
Videos
- Kristin Neff: The Space Between Self-Esteem and Self-Compassion
An eye-opening TEDx talk on why self-compassion is more powerful than self-esteem. Available on YouTube.
- Christopher Germer: The Fierce Side of Self-Compassion
A compelling talk on how self-compassion includes healthy boundaries and self-advocacy. Available on YouTube.
Mindful Self-Compassion
Mindful Self-Compassion (MSC) is an evidence-based programme developed by Kristin Neff and Christopher Germer. It teaches the combined skills of mindfulness and self-compassion, offering a practical path to greater emotional resilience, reduced anxiety, and a healthier inner relationship.
Websites
Books
- The Mindful Self-Compassion Workbook
A step-by-step practical guide to the MSC programme, complete with exercises and meditations.
- Teaching the Mindful Self-Compassion Program
A comprehensive guide for professionals wishing to teach MSC — also deeply valuable for personal understanding.
Videos
- Introduction to Mindful Self-Compassion
Kristin Neff and Christopher Germer offer numerous introductory talks and guided practices on YouTube.
- MSC Guided Meditations
A rich collection of audio and video guided practices is freely available at self-compassion.org and on YouTube.
Compassionate Inquiry
Compassionate Inquiry is a psychotherapeutic approach developed by Dr. Gabor Maté. It explores how unconscious beliefs formed in childhood shape our behaviour and sense of self today. It is a gentle, powerful process of uncovering and releasing patterns that no longer serve us.
Websites
- Compassionate Inquiry
The official site for Compassionate Inquiry — with information about the approach, practitioner training, and how to find a trained practitioner. ↗ Visit
- Dr. Gabor Maté
Dr. Maté's personal site, offering articles, interviews, event information, and links to his books and talks. ↗ Visit
Books
- The Myth of Normal
A sweeping examination of how trauma and disconnection underlie much of modern illness — and what genuine healing looks like.
- When the Body Says No
A profound exploration of the connection between emotional repression, stress, and physical illness.
- In the Realm of Hungry Ghosts
A compassionate and deeply human look at addiction and its roots in childhood trauma and unmet needs.
Videos
- Gabor Maté: The Myth of Normal
A wide-ranging and deeply moving talk on trauma, authenticity, and healing. Available on YouTube.
- Gabor Maté: On Compassionate Inquiry
Several demonstrations and explanations of the Compassionate Inquiry process are available on YouTube.