The East Side Freedom Library has been host to a series of workshops and drop in practice sessions in Mindful Self-Compassion for over 4 years. Beginning among the books as part of a call for mutual aid and support, we moved to an online format during the long months of COVID restrictions. We are now meeting on the lawn at the Library on Wednesday mornings, 8:30-9:45am.

Mindful Self-Compassion is built on:
1) Mindfulness & awareness – recognizing and knowing that we are suffering when we are suffering. Surprisingly elusive (and prone to rumination), this opens the door to taking care of ourselves and others when we need it most.
2) Common Humanity & Interbeing. We are not alone and we can draw strength on our solidarity.
3) Self-Kindness and compassion. Developing the capacity to turn toward ourselves with kindness, and caring as an option.

Our weekly meetings are intended to be a drop in format, come as you are able – and we also have some strong regulars making for a rich mixture of experience. The gatherings are not therapy and not focused on participants’ personal problems, but rather on our capacity to care for ourselves during our challenges and while we care for others – including our planet.

Patricia Enstad, LISW is our guide and facilitator and is a trained teacher of the Center for Mindful Self-Compassion. She is also a community activist, serving in leadership both for the Payne-Phalen Community Council and StPaul 350. To participate in these workshops, please reach out to her at [email protected].