Amy Knize MA, LCPC

06/02/2026

06/02/2026

06/02/2026

Self-compassion is key to a happy and fulfilling life. Here are five practical ways to be kind to yourself:
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1 - Ask yourself what you need: Acknowledge that your needs are valid.
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2 - Validate your pain: Recognize and accept your emotional experience.
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3 - Remember you aren’t alone: We all struggle; you’re not isolated in your challenges.
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4 - Honor your humanity: Being human means being imperfect.
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5 - Treat yourself like you would treat a friend: Be supportive and helpful toward yourself.
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05/28/2026

05/28/2026

05/15/2026

05/15/2026

The purpose of boundaries isn’t to shut yourself away from the world so no one and nothing can touch you. That’s a trauma response that needs to be addressed.

The purpose of boundaries is to give you control of the barometer of what you allow to influence you.

It protects you, but it also gives you freedom to do the things God has in your life for you to do.

05/15/2026

May is Mental Health Awareness Month, a reminder to take a moment for ourselves when we're stressed. Our natural threat response can often lead to fight (self-criticism), flight (isolation), and freeze (rumination). But self-compassion offers a powerful antidote.

By practicing kindness, mindfulness, and connecting with our shared humanity, we downregulate the threat system and activate the care system (the tend and befriend response), reducing stress and fostering resilience.

Research shows that this shift into self-compassion can lower cortisol levels and increase heart rate variability, making us less defensive, calmer, and more balanced.

This month, let’s prioritize mental well-being and show ourselves the kindness we need. Take a pause, place your hand on your heart, and remind yourself that you are worthy of care and compassion.