This Difficult Thing of Being Human: The Art of Self-Compassion

"Bodhipaksa gently reminds us that compassion for others begins with compassion for ourselves. This book is a wise guide to five key skills that bring mindful self-compassion to our own suffering and allow us to move through the world with our hearts wide open." —Tara Brach, author of Radical Acceptance

“Bodhipaksa embodies an unusual combination of penetrating wisdom, simplicity and modesty, heartfelt good humor, deep contemplative training, grounding in science, and direct clear expression. A wonderful friend and teacher for the path.” —Rick Hanson, author of Buddha's Brain

"Suffering is inherent to being human. Bodhipaksa contends that mindfulness meditation and lovingkindness or compassion meditation are powerful vehicles for meeting this challenge. He makes a compelling case with a clear presentation of these traditional meditation practices and scientific studies that show how these benefit us. Kudos!" —Sharon Salzberg, author of Lovingkindness and Real Happiness

Bodhipaksa is a Buddhist teacher and author who has been practicing within the Triratna Buddhist Community since 1982. He's originally from Scotland and formerly ran a retreat center in the Scottish Highlands. In 2000 he created the online meditation center Wildmind (www.wildmind.org) in order to make meditation instruction more widely available. He holds an interdisciplinary master's degree in Buddhism and business from the University of Montana. He lives and teaches in New Hampshire.