The Importance of Self-Compassion for Maintaining a Healthy Heart
Written by Susan Parker | Updated on May 28, 2025
Reviewed by Susan Parker
11 sources cited
Overview
Are you someone who always prioritizes the needs of others? Research from the University of Pittsburgh suggests that putting yourself first is not only beneficial for your mental well-being but may also lower your risk of heart disease. A recent study featured in the journal Health Psychology delves into the relationship between self-compassion and cardiovascular health, shedding light on the importance of being kind to oneself. Let's explore these fresh insights on self-compassion and its implications for overall health. To begin, let's delve into what self-compassion truly entails. Defined by Good Therapy, self-compassion involves directing understanding, acceptance, and love inwardly. While it may come naturally to show compassion to others, extending the same empathy to oneself, especially in times of error, can be more challenging. Researchers at the University of Pittsburgh and the University of Illinois recognized the positive impact of self-compassion on mental health and sought to uncover its potential benefits for cardiovascular well-being.Examining Self-Compassion in Women
A cohort of 195 women aged between 45 and 67, all free of cardiovascular disease at the study's commencement, was enlisted for the investigation. Participants completed surveys detailing their experiences of self-doubt and self-care practices during stressful periods. Various health metrics such as BMI, blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and blood sugar levels were recorded, along with ultrasound scans of the carotid arteries – crucial vessels carrying blood from the heart to the brain. Using this data as a baseline, researchers assessed the cardiovascular health of each woman, yielding intriguing findings.Enhanced Self-Compassion Correlates with Improved Arterial Health
The study revealed that women scoring higher on the self-compassion scale exhibited thinner carotid artery walls and less plaque accumulation compared to their counterparts with lower scores. In essence, practicing self-compassion was associated with a reduced likelihood of cardiovascular conditions like heart attacks and strokes in the years following the initial evaluations. Furthermore, these positive outcomes remained consistent even after adjusting for lifestyle factors and other psychological variables influencing cardiovascular health, including physical activity, smoking habits, and depressive tendencies. Professor Thurston emphasizes the significance of cultivating kindness and compassion, particularly towards oneself, especially in today's highly stressful environment.Cultivating Self-Compassion
Curious about how to integrate self-compassion into your routine? Psychology Today suggests three approaches to nurture self-love:- Embrace Mindfulness: Recognize and address negative self-talk by heightening your awareness of the critical inner voice. Online meditation programs can aid in this practice.
- Recognize Shared Humanity: Acknowledge that imperfection is part of the human experience, connecting individuals rather than setting them apart, as highlighted by Daniel Bober from Yale University School of Medicine.
- Embrace Imperfection: Dr. Kristen Martinez advocates for granting yourself permission to make mistakes, fostering self-acceptance and understanding shared emotions with others.
