Meeting yourself, others and struggle with warmth, wisdom and kindness

Compassion is the ability to recognize struggle - in ourselves or others - and meet it with warmth and steadiness. Self-compassion turns that same care inward. Rather than defaulting to self-criticism, we learn to face difficulty with honesty and kindness, understanding that struggle is part of being human, not evidence of personal failure.

Research shows that compassion practice strengthens emotional regulation and softens harsh self-judgment. It’s linked to lower stress and burnout, and a steadier sense of self-worth. People who practise self-compassion report less anxiety, greater emotional balance, and more capacity to stay present and connected with others.

At DEYÀ, compassion becomes practice

We draw on both contemplative traditions and contemporary clinical science, teaching compassion as a skill anyone can develop. The goal is to build a sustainable inner relationship that can hold pressure, pain, and purpose together. We do this through three interconnected streams: contemplation, creation and connection. 

Contemplation is the practice of still attention. It’s the willingness to meet what is here — not to analyse or perfect it, but to see with sincerity. Through meditation, reflection, and time in nature, we cultivate a steadier way of being with life as it is.

Creation arises from this presence. When we are in genuine dialogue with ourselves and the world around us, expression becomes natural. Through writing, movement, food, and art, we give form to what we’ve encountered within and around us.

Connection is both the foundation and the outcome. Connection with self, with one another, and with the land. The way a place speaks when we slow down enough to listen. The way belonging returns when we stop striving for it.