önkönyörület

Önkörnyület is a Hungarian term that translates to "self-compassion" in English. It refers to the practice of treating oneself with kindness, understanding, and acceptance, especially during times of difficulty, failure, or perceived inadequacy. It involves acknowledging one's suffering or pain without judgment and responding to it with warmth and care, much like one would offer comfort to a close friend.

The concept of self-compassion is rooted in Buddhist philosophy but has been extensively studied and popularized in Western psychology by researchers like Kristin Neff. It is generally understood to have three core components: self-kindness, a sense of common humanity, and mindfulness. Self-kindness involves being warm and understanding towards oneself rather than harshly critical. Common humanity recognizes that suffering and personal inadequacy are part of the shared human experience, rather than something that isolates individuals. Mindfulness involves observing one's thoughts and feelings without suppressing or exaggerating them, allowing for a balanced perspective.

Practicing önkönyörület is associated with numerous psychological benefits, including reduced anxiety and depression, increased emotional resilience, and greater overall well-being. It is seen as an alternative to excessive self-criticism and self-deprecation, fostering a more stable and positive self-relationship. Instead of striving for unattainable perfection, self-compassion encourages individuals to accept their imperfections and learn from their mistakes with a supportive inner voice.