S6:E3 Self-criticism is self-harm

Why are we so much harsher on ourselves than we are on others? In this episode of Super Brain , I explore the neuroscience of self-compassion — what it is, what it isn’t, and why it’s the antidote to self-criticism. Drawing on the work of Dr Kristin Neff and Buddhist philosophy, we’ll look at self-compassion as a three-part skill: self-kindness, mindfulness, and social connection. I’ll share research showing how self-compassion reduces stress, quiets the amygdala, and activates brain regions linked to empathy and emotional regulation. I’ll also explain why self-criticism is a form of self-harm, and why self-compassion is a foundation for flourishing and manifesting happiness, resilience, and contentment. As always, I’ll wrap up with my Tools in Three — simple ways you can start turning up your brain’s kindness switch today. Each episode explores what’s really going on inside your brain when you do the things you do — from the everyday to the extraordinary — and gives you three tools for your Super Brain kit. Sabina's books The Neuroscience of Manifesting Still Me 100 Days to a Younger Brain Beating Brain Fog Brain Gym in a Box Support this show . Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

You can listen to S6:E3 Self-criticism is self-harm online on Radio and Podcast. Open the player on this page to stream the available audio.

S6:E3 Self-criticism is self-harm is an episode from Super Brain by Brennan Sabina.

This episode is 10:17 long.

This episode was published on Nov 13, 2025.

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