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The Science of Compassion: A Modern Approach for Cultivating Empathy, Love, and Connection
Breakthrough Science and Practical Tools for Cultivating Compassion
Why is compassion so powerful? Like many forms of spirituality and meditation, compassion practice has been shown by research to enhance your health, psychological well-being, relationships, and sense of purpose. "The unique quality of compassion," teaches Dr. Kelly McGonigal, "is that its benefits extend to the one who offers it, the one who receives it, and all those who witness compassion in action." With The Science of Compassion, this acclaimed researcher presents a practical workshop to help you understand what makes compassion work—and how you can cultivate it in your life.
The Power of Choosing Compassion
Compassion can be a difficult choice to make—after all, why would we deliberately choose to add another person’s pain to our own? "Not only does our compassion ease the suffering of others," teaches Dr. McGonigal, "Our brain, heart, and entire physiology are tuned to support us when we make the courageous decision to be compassionate." In this seven-hour training intensive, she provides invaluable tools and guidance for overcoming emotional fatigue, empathic distress, self-judgment, and other obstacles that can keep us closed down and afraid to reach out.
"Compassion is an embodied state that prepares us to take positive action," says Dr. McGonigal. Here is an audio course filled with cutting-edge science, inspirational stories, and research-based practices to help you build your capacity for generosity, empathy, and kindness—and become a compassionate force in the world.
HIGHLIGHTS
• The Biology of Compassion—empowering findings from the latest compassion research
• The Upward Spiral of Compassion—the power of witnessing and sharing stories of kindness
• The Unique Challenge of Self-Compassion—three keys for offering loving support to ourselves
• Compassionate Presence—when simply being with another without trying to change anything is the best choice
• Empathic Distress—how to keep from being overwhelmed by another’s suffering
• Receiving Compassion—guidance for allowing help to come when we need it
• Difficult Compassion—practices for broadening your ability to offer forgiveness and generosity towards those who cause you pain
• Healing with Compassion—the positive effects of compassion on stress, loneliness, and social anxiety
• Beyond the Self—how we can connect to a source of compassion that surpasses our normal human limits
• Sustaining Openheartedness—how to overcome the common challenges of "compassion fatigue" and "compassion collapse"
• Meditation and Mindfulness—potent tools for cultivating compassion, including guided practices
• Eleven sessions of breakthrough research, heart-opening stories, and transformative practices from renowned health psychologist Dr. Kelly McGonigal
Why is compassion so powerful? Like many forms of spirituality and meditation, compassion practice has been shown by research to enhance your health, psychological well-being, relationships, and sense of purpose. "The unique quality of compassion," teaches Dr. Kelly McGonigal, "is that its benefits extend to the one who offers it, the one who receives it, and all those who witness compassion in action." With The Science of Compassion, this acclaimed researcher presents a practical workshop to help you understand what makes compassion work—and how you can cultivate it in your life.
The Power of Choosing Compassion
Compassion can be a difficult choice to make—after all, why would we deliberately choose to add another person’s pain to our own? "Not only does our compassion ease the suffering of others," teaches Dr. McGonigal, "Our brain, heart, and entire physiology are tuned to support us when we make the courageous decision to be compassionate." In this seven-hour training intensive, she provides invaluable tools and guidance for overcoming emotional fatigue, empathic distress, self-judgment, and other obstacles that can keep us closed down and afraid to reach out.
"Compassion is an embodied state that prepares us to take positive action," says Dr. McGonigal. Here is an audio course filled with cutting-edge science, inspirational stories, and research-based practices to help you build your capacity for generosity, empathy, and kindness—and become a compassionate force in the world.
HIGHLIGHTS
• The Biology of Compassion—empowering findings from the latest compassion research
• The Upward Spiral of Compassion—the power of witnessing and sharing stories of kindness
• The Unique Challenge of Self-Compassion—three keys for offering loving support to ourselves
• Compassionate Presence—when simply being with another without trying to change anything is the best choice
• Empathic Distress—how to keep from being overwhelmed by another’s suffering
• Receiving Compassion—guidance for allowing help to come when we need it
• Difficult Compassion—practices for broadening your ability to offer forgiveness and generosity towards those who cause you pain
• Healing with Compassion—the positive effects of compassion on stress, loneliness, and social anxiety
• Beyond the Self—how we can connect to a source of compassion that surpasses our normal human limits
• Sustaining Openheartedness—how to overcome the common challenges of "compassion fatigue" and "compassion collapse"
• Meditation and Mindfulness—potent tools for cultivating compassion, including guided practices
• Eleven sessions of breakthrough research, heart-opening stories, and transformative practices from renowned health psychologist Dr. Kelly McGonigal
Audiobook
Published September 1, 2016
17 people are currently reading
630 people want to read
About the author
Kelly McGonigal
29 books1,662 followersKelly McGonigal, PhD, is a health psychologist and lecturer at Stanford University, an award-winning science journalist, and a leading expert on the mind-body relationship. Her teaching and writing focus on the applications of psychological science to personal health and happiness, as well as public policy and social change.
She is the author of The Upside of Stress (Penguin Random House/Avery 2015), The Willpower Instinct(Penguin/Avery 2012), Yoga for Pain Relief (New Harbinger 2009), and The Neuroscience of Change: A Compassion-Based Guide to Personal Transformation (Sounds True Audio, 2012).
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/kellymcgoniga...
She is the author of The Upside of Stress (Penguin Random House/Avery 2015), The Willpower Instinct(Penguin/Avery 2012), Yoga for Pain Relief (New Harbinger 2009), and The Neuroscience of Change: A Compassion-Based Guide to Personal Transformation (Sounds True Audio, 2012).
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/kellymcgoniga...
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Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews
October 6, 2019
Let me first say, that I listened to the audio, and immediately, (really within the first 10 seconds,) I was ready to throw this one out the window. However, since I wasn't sitting directly by a window and the closest window wasn't open because it was too cold outside today, I stayed with it. And I'm glad I did.
Parts were super annoying to me but this book had some wonderful and useful information. I was completely in and hanging on each new section....but OMG, the new age feel, was too much for me. It's not that I don't practice meditation, I do. However, in this book, it felt overdone , and I thought all the "Breathe" commands were annoying. Just give me the info an let me process it at my leisure. Just sayin'. So 4 stars, because this helped me with something I've been trying to process since a recent trip home.
Parts were super annoying to me but this book had some wonderful and useful information. I was completely in and hanging on each new section....but OMG, the new age feel, was too much for me. It's not that I don't practice meditation, I do. However, in this book, it felt overdone , and I thought all the "Breathe" commands were annoying. Just give me the info an let me process it at my leisure. Just sayin'. So 4 stars, because this helped me with something I've been trying to process since a recent trip home.
January 31, 2018
A pretty solid succinct overview of the subject matter that examines a good mixture of the scientific bases for and the practical applications of the findings in the field. I find this research both interesting and important for the average person since it deals with overall happiness and the ability to connect with and understand others that only becomes more and more important as culture and worldwide interpersonal communication and interaction becomes easier and more a part of every day life. My only real complaint is that this is audio only and a bit short, neglecting some of the depth that could've been provided in these treatments of the topics discussed. The audio-only format is in part to allow for guided meditations. I didn't find these guides all that useful and in my opinion would've been better provided as hyperlinks in an ebook. Still, I didn't mind them overly much and I do think the short audio length is very helpful in making this book more approachable for the average reader who is looking for the more practical information rather than a more drawn-out exploration that notes all the various scientific bases.
Overall, still a great read, my only caveat being that you may want to go for a longer work for a more in-depth look. McGonigal has several other books that may be appropriate for those purposes.
Overall, still a great read, my only caveat being that you may want to go for a longer work for a more in-depth look. McGonigal has several other books that may be appropriate for those purposes.
April 21, 2017
I just did not enjoy this book. First off, the reader, although having a lovely and soft voice, had too much of a whiney and slightly irritating way of reading. Secondly, the book was just too wishy-washy, and abstract new-agey for me to enjoy. Don't get me wrong, I absolutely LOVE metaphysics and everything it implies, but this book was just too hippy for my liking.
To summarize the book in a single sentence: focus on feeling compassion for others and yourself, no matter how hard it may seem.
To summarize the book in a single sentence: focus on feeling compassion for others and yourself, no matter how hard it may seem.
February 12, 2022
Not sure if I learned anything.
April 3, 2020
2019.08.17–2019.08.19
Contents
McGonigal K (2016) (06:45) Science of Compassion, The - A Modern Approach for Cultivating Empathy, Love, and Connection
Introduction and Overview
01. The Biology of Compassion—empowering findings from the latest compassion research
02. The Upward Spiral of Compassion—the power of witnessing and sharing stories of kindness
03. The Unique Challenge of Self-Compassion—three keys for offering loving support to ourselves
04. Compassionate Presence—when simply being with another without trying to change anything is the best choice
05. Empathic Distress—how to keep from being overwhelmed by another’s suffering
06. Receiving Compassion—guidance for allowing help to come when we need it
07. Difficult Compassion—practices for broadening your ability to offer forgiveness and generosity towards those who cause you pain
08. Healing with Compassion—the positive effects of compassion on stress, loneliness, and social anxiety
09. Beyond the Self—how we can connect to a source of compassion that surpasses our normal human limits
10. Sustaining Openheartedness—how to overcome the common challenges of “compassion fatigue” and “compassion collapse”
11. Meditation and Mindfulness—potent tools for cultivating compassion, including guided practices
Contents
McGonigal K (2016) (06:45) Science of Compassion, The - A Modern Approach for Cultivating Empathy, Love, and Connection
Introduction and Overview
01. The Biology of Compassion—empowering findings from the latest compassion research
02. The Upward Spiral of Compassion—the power of witnessing and sharing stories of kindness
03. The Unique Challenge of Self-Compassion—three keys for offering loving support to ourselves
04. Compassionate Presence—when simply being with another without trying to change anything is the best choice
05. Empathic Distress—how to keep from being overwhelmed by another’s suffering
06. Receiving Compassion—guidance for allowing help to come when we need it
07. Difficult Compassion—practices for broadening your ability to offer forgiveness and generosity towards those who cause you pain
08. Healing with Compassion—the positive effects of compassion on stress, loneliness, and social anxiety
09. Beyond the Self—how we can connect to a source of compassion that surpasses our normal human limits
10. Sustaining Openheartedness—how to overcome the common challenges of “compassion fatigue” and “compassion collapse”
11. Meditation and Mindfulness—potent tools for cultivating compassion, including guided practices
April 23, 2019
Want scientific evidence for the great benefits that you receive if you cultivate compassion towards yourself and others? How about finding out about a whole lot of very significant benefits that you most likely did not know about? Maybe learning about common psychological pitfalls and barriers would be helpful? If so you probably also want to learn about proven real world methods for reaping the benefits as well.
Look no further. This is the book you are looking for.
Look no further. This is the book you are looking for.
March 4, 2021
This is important.
Compassion for self and for the people who might have hurt you in the past is not easy, but it is absolutely necessary.
This book will teach you how.
Kelly Mcgonigal teaches guided compassion meditations, and this can be a good way to practice compassion in those times when it seems impossible to access.
Compassion for self and for the people who might have hurt you in the past is not easy, but it is absolutely necessary.
This book will teach you how.
Kelly Mcgonigal teaches guided compassion meditations, and this can be a good way to practice compassion in those times when it seems impossible to access.
February 15, 2022
This book opened up my mind to the benefits in compassion and how the science reinforces these benefits and mindfulness acts.
I spent 10yrs as a Soldier from age 16, then straight into Firefighting where I have been for 29yrs. Mindfulness, empathy, compassion and emotions are not things that have featured in my adult life up until now, and I have compartmentalised and therefore not dealt with a lot of events. This book has reinforced other readings with scientifically proof that these acts, which I would have scoffed at 6 months ago, are real and beneficial.
I enjoyed the exercises included, learning how to engage in practice with this mindfulness, and feeling much better and emotionally awoken because of it.
I spent 10yrs as a Soldier from age 16, then straight into Firefighting where I have been for 29yrs. Mindfulness, empathy, compassion and emotions are not things that have featured in my adult life up until now, and I have compartmentalised and therefore not dealt with a lot of events. This book has reinforced other readings with scientifically proof that these acts, which I would have scoffed at 6 months ago, are real and beneficial.
I enjoyed the exercises included, learning how to engage in practice with this mindfulness, and feeling much better and emotionally awoken because of it.
July 20, 2024
This one was rough. After soaking in the author's other books, this one was more difficult. It was presented in a different style with sessions rather than chapters and an authorial voice that felt like she recorded the audiobook in lieu of writing the book. The topic challenged me. But her integration of Buddhist principals and scientific research was compelling. She discussed scientific studies on human participants that showed the sometimes counterintuitive nature of compassion and empathy, for ourselves, for those we love, and for those who might not "deserve" it based on their actions which we disagree with. In the end, I was ready to hear her guided meditations and explore how I can offer more compassion in my own life.
December 1, 2021
The science part is interesting; the new age stuff wasn't for me. If you're into that stuff, more power to you; I just wanted a bit of science.
I realise I'm probably just bitter and cynical and self-conscious, and that if I practiced affirmations and compassion meditation and all that I'd probably feel better about life, but, alas, I am bitter and cynical and self-conscious and would feel like an idiot :) I'll be glad if I never hear the words heart space ever again.
I do meditate, but I sit quietly and don't think. That much works for me.
I realise I'm probably just bitter and cynical and self-conscious, and that if I practiced affirmations and compassion meditation and all that I'd probably feel better about life, but, alas, I am bitter and cynical and self-conscious and would feel like an idiot :) I'll be glad if I never hear the words heart space ever again.
I do meditate, but I sit quietly and don't think. That much works for me.
September 2, 2018
4/5
A great introduction to compassion meditation, illustrating why and how it can be used. Outlines some studies with interesting findings, making the case for how effective compassion practice can be. Still, the title is perhaps promising a bit more science than there actually is. It incorporates practical steps towards cultivating compassion in your daily life and, at times, it is more of a guide than a literate book for how to use and think of compassion. As it seems, all in all, the world would be better off if everyone practiced compassion and I believe some of the insights in this book can provide that eye-opener to most of us.
A great introduction to compassion meditation, illustrating why and how it can be used. Outlines some studies with interesting findings, making the case for how effective compassion practice can be. Still, the title is perhaps promising a bit more science than there actually is. It incorporates practical steps towards cultivating compassion in your daily life and, at times, it is more of a guide than a literate book for how to use and think of compassion. As it seems, all in all, the world would be better off if everyone practiced compassion and I believe some of the insights in this book can provide that eye-opener to most of us.
May 5, 2021
I've been looking for books on compassion that aren't overly touchy-Feely and this one takes the cake. Yes, little bits of touchy-feely and guided meditation stuff, but really digs into what happens in our brains and our bodies when we give and receive compassion. It's worth listening to on audio book.
January 26, 2022
Short read. Has some interesting info on the science around compassion and its effect on both the giver and recipient. But this had quite a bit of guided meditation included with it (at least in the audiobook version) at the end of every "session"/chapter. I was looking for a science book, and didn't need meditation exercises included, just not my cup of tea.
March 12, 2018
Definitely not geared towards scientists! But I gleaned a lot nonetheless
December 26, 2020
Excellent, loved the meditation, I’ve been recommending to everyone.
January 12, 2021
Balm for my soul in this time of Covid-19 and as we edge towards the inauguration of Biden and Harris. Practical and effective practices.
Take good care everyone stay safe and well.
Take good care everyone stay safe and well.
January 30, 2021
Very practical. Compassion from the view of science and many religions. All encompassing. Very good exercises and techniques to engage compassion.
November 20, 2021
Our society needs everyone to feel and present more compassion. This book helps to understand and practice what some may need you to understand!
March 10, 2022
Nice meditations included. Insightful.
February 17, 2024
Not sure about the meditations, but it was an insightful book. Compassion is at first a stress feeling!
January 25, 2020
This audio book made me realize a few things: I'm compassionate. But not to myself and not to people who have harmed me in any way. I have some things to work on :)
Review Here!
Review Here!
December 7, 2022
Loved the meditations throughout the book
May 3, 2017
Excellent read weaving science and human nature together for a clear path to Compassion for others and self.
Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews