Self-compassion, the act of treating oneself with kindness and understanding, is an incredible tool for combatting a range of mental health struggles. This includes feelings of anxiety, depression, internal criticism, body image, self esteem issues, and so much more. When individuals are able to extend the same kindness and care to themselves as they do others, they open up the opportunity to begin working on themselves in incredibly productive ways.
What does self-compassion have to do with mirrors?
Mirror work is a relatively new technique that utilizes self-compassion and exposure therapy to help improve issues with body image and self esteem. People may recognize it from celebrities like Meghan Trainor talking about how mirror work has helped them on their therapy journeys. Whether someone has experienced disordered eating habits, is a new mom acclimating to a new body, or has struggled with body dysmorphia, mirror work is designed to target harmful thinking habits that may be keeping people from thriving. It elicits emotions and beliefs that may be uncomfortable with the goal of processing them. Eventually, with self compassion, those emotions and beliefs surrounding the body move into a neutral or positive space.
Now, how does mirror therapy work? What does it look like?
Mirror work often looks different for each person depending on their concerns and what their therapist believes will work best for them. However, the two most popular types of mirror therapy are:
Guided Non-Judgmental Mirror Exposure Therapy: This type of mirror work involves the individual standing in front of a full length mirror and describing what they see with non-judgmental wording. The person takes their time going from the very top of their head to the bottom of their feet, making sure that they are not falling into negative self-talk as they are analyzing their appearance. This type of mirror work focuses on reprogramming the brain to reach for body tolerance or neutrality over harmful self-judgment. By observing the body in a way that is observational instead of opinionated, an opportunity opens up to reframe beliefs that are no longer serving the person in the reflection.
Pure Mirror Exposure Therapy: This approach has the individual look at their body in a full length mirror and externalize the thoughts and feelings that pop up as they explore their appearance. Instead of describing the body, they instead focus on their own experience taking in their reflection. While it might sound nerve-wracking at first, this method is known to reduce discomfort and dissatisfaction surrounding body image. Naming the uncomfortable feelings becomes the first step to letting them go.
Mirror work can then include positivity work as well. Depending on the individual and their therapist, the person may be asked to follow up their observations with self compliments or with general positive statements about their appearance.
What should people keep in mind when trying mirror therapy?
Mindfulness and self-compassion go hand-in-hand. As individuals are practicing mirror work, they should remember to be as present and aware in the moment as they can be. This can look like utilizing calming breathing techniques, or taking the process slowly. Being grounded in their body will only strengthen their ability to be compassionate and access the benefits of this type of work.
Lastly, mirror work, just like other forms of therapy, can be difficult. It often takes time to become comfortable with the process or see results. Remember to lean on your support systems and take it one day at a time. Your therapist will be there cheering you on the whole way. You’ve got this.
Want to learn more about mirror work and self-compassion? Our incredible therapists here at Manhattan Wellness are ready to start that journey with you. We understand that learning to be kind to yourself, incorporating self-compassion into your life, or tackling struggles with body image can be intimidating. With our amazing group of therapists, you don’t have to navigate the process all on your own. A dedicated team working out of Manhattan, Brooklyn, or anywhere in New York, our clinicians are ready to help you start a journey of empowerment and self discovery. Follow these steps to get started:
- Contact Manhattan Wellness today or email us at hello@manhattanwellness.org
- Schedule your first appointment with one of our Manhattan therapists
- Embark on this empowering path to a more confident you
FEEL MORE CONFIDENT WITH THERAPY FOR WOMEN IN BROOKLYN & MANHATTAN, NEW YORK
At Manhattan Wellness, we understand that with all the messages we receive from the world, it can be difficult to maintain a positive narrative about ourselves. From social media, movies, and even people close to us, it can be hard to drown out the negative. So much so that our inner critic takes over and we forget to show ourselves the same compassion as others. That’s why our female therapists want to support you in building the confidence you need to reach your highest potential. Let us help you create an empowering narrative that will benefit all aspects of your life, from personal to professional. If you are interested in beginning counseling for women:
- Submit a Contact Form or Email Us at hello@manhattanwellness.org
- Learn More About Our Team and Our Areas of Expertise
- Begin Seeing Yourself in a Whole New Light!
OTHER THERAPY SERVICES AT MANHATTAN WELLNESS IN MANHATTAN, WESTCHESTER, BROOKLYN & THROUGHOUT NEW YORK
Our therapists understand that building confidence takes time and that other issues can come up along the way. To better support you, we offer a variety of services to cater to your individual needs. The therapy services we offer are Therapy for Self Esteem, Anxiety Treatment, and therapy for dating and relationship issues. As well as therapy for college students, support for maternal mental health, body image therapy, and so much more. Are you feel like you’re not living the life you want and need to make changes? Let’s talk about it.
