We're all called upon to be an emotional support for others at some point in our lives - even in our jobs. Expand your knowledge and understanding of how to compassionately support others while also supporting yourself.

Whether in our personal or professional lives, there will often be a time when personal, vulnerable information will be shared with us, whether it be disclosures of mental health challenges, experiences of violence, or other destabilizing experiences in someone’s life. It is common in these moments to feel unprepared, unsure how to respond, and worried we did or did not do “the right thing.” This one hour psychoeducational workshop will provide “support to supports,” and aims to:

• Provide information on the neurobiology and physiology of stress responses
• Normalize responses and reactions to disclosures
• Provide practical strategies to support oneself during, and after, supporting someone else in their moment of vulnerability
• Invite compassion for ourselves and others when navigating complex conversations

The workshop is meant to disseminate information and is not a space designed for group processing, though questions and discussion will be welcome. The workshop is open to all, however those in leadership roles, such as faculty, staff, and graduate students might find it most applicable.

When we struggle, our conditioning is to blame ourselves or others, and this can lead to suffering. This session will explore self-compassion as an essential life skill to use during difficult moments.

The tempo of life has intensified, making it increasingly difficult to navigate the many demands expected of us – at work, at home, of ourselves. When we struggle, our conditioning is to blame ourselves or others, and this can lead to suffering. But failure, imperfection, and challenge are a part of being human. We learn from our mistakes and our struggles. That's how we grow. Holding ourselves with kindness and compassion during such times, eases suffering and makes space for more of who we really are “to show up”. We become more whole.

This session will introduce participants to the meaning and purpose of self-compassion as an essential life skill to use during difficult moments. It will touch upon embodiment and grief as elements of this skillset; and it will introduce accessible and easy to use practices that participants can utilize throughout the day and in moments when self-doubt and self-recrimination surface.

Learning Outcomes:

• Understand the nature of self-compassion as an essential life skill.
• Explore how mindfulness and embodiment contribute to this practice.
• Develop techniques designed to cultivate self-compassion.
• Obtain resources to further your self-compassion practice.

Join us for a sweet exploration during our Honey Tasting event, where you'll discover the diverse world of honey - from its myriad flavors and textures, to the vital role of pollinators in its creation. Learn why honey is not just a treat, but a precious gift from nature that sustains both bees and humans. Put your detective skills to the test and see if you can detect the imposter among the honey samples. Learn about the apiary right here, on Queen’s West Campus.