Often, people consciously or subconsciously reject the idea of becoming more compassionate. To many, compassion indicates weakness. The good news is that research tells us a different story: rather than being exhausted by their compassion, compassionate people are energized by it. Compassion has the power to positively transform your life as well as the lives of the people around you.
What compassion means
Looking at the Latin roots, compassion literally means “to suffer with.” But compassion carries a much deeper meaning: it is the feeling that arises when you are confronted with another person's suffering and you feel compelled to help.
When one cares with compassion they simultaneously make people feel respected, allow them to recover more quickly, and make them feel more comfortable. Needing assistance can be a sensitive topic for many seniors, and caregivers can put their care recipient at ease by being more compassionate.
Cultivating Compassion Increases Happiness
“If you want others to be happy, practice compassion. If you want to be happy, practice compassion.” - Dalai Lama
There is a direct correlation between compassionate people and those who report higher levels of overall happiness, and these benefits extend full circle. People who receive compassion from others experience happiness, and happier people are more likely to commit more compassionate acts.
Compassion Enhances Resilience
Caregiving is one of our society's most stressful jobs, and the most taxing aspect is often the emotional toll. Training in compassion has been shown to make people more resilient, and it can even strengthen the immune system by lowering stress hormones.
Compassion Can Reduce Feelings of Loneliness
Research has shown that compassionate people tend to be more socially adept, making them less vulnerable to loneliness. Self-compassion enhances life satisfaction, psychological well-being and mood.
Improve Your Relationship
Caring with compassion greatly enhances your relationship with the person you are caring for through better communication and more nurturing care. Compassionate people are more optimistic and supportive when communicating with others.
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