Self-Compassion Series, Episode 2: “Thoughts Are Not Facts”

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

We’re continuing the Self-Compassion series with a shift from body to mind. Building on last episode’s compassionate body scan, Eartha introduces a simple but powerful idea: thoughts are not facts. Just because a thought shows up doesn’t mean it’s true.

Using the image of the mind as a house and thoughts as visitors — some kind, some noisy — we practice creating space between ourselves and our harshest self-talk. Through the phrase “I am having the thought that…” and a guided “leaves on the stream” visualization, we learn to notice difficult thoughts without letting them take over.

We also meet the inner critic for what it often is — a worried protector, not an enemy — and practice offering ourselves the same compassionate reframe we’d offer a good friend. The episode closes with language for children and teens, too, making this a practice families can share together.

A mistake is a moment, not a character. A hard day is a hard day, not a whole life. Thoughts are not facts — and we can be kind to ourselves anyway.

Check out our video chat here!