Gottman Institute Insights: Healing Relationships with Appreciation

Hello, everyone! I’m so thrilled you’re here today because we’re diving into something truly transformative: the power of appreciation to heal and strengthen relationships. We’ve all heard that the little things matter, but what if I told you that small moments of gratitude and connection could change the very fabric of your relationships?

Today, we have an incredible panel of thought leaders to guide us through this conversation. Louise Hay, a pioneer in self-healing and affirmations, will show us how simple words of appreciation can create deep emotional shifts. Robert Emmons, a leading researcher on gratitude, will break down the science of why saying ‘thank you’ matters more than we realize. And Kristin Neff, the expert on self-compassion, will share how being kind to ourselves helps us be better for the people we love.

Whether you’re navigating challenges in a relationship or simply looking to deepen your connections, this imaginary conversation is for you. Let’s open our hearts, expand our minds, and embrace the transformative power of appreciation. Because when you lead with gratitude, magic happens. Now, let’s begin.

From Conflict to Connection—Turning Regret into Growth in Relationships

Nick Sasaki (Moderator):
Welcome, Harriet, Marshall, and Esther. Today, we’re tackling a topic that every couple faces: conflict. Specifically, how we can transform moments of regret into opportunities for growth. Harriet, let’s start with you. Why is it so difficult for couples to address conflict and regret constructively?

Harriet Lerner:
Thank you, Nick. At its core, conflict often triggers deep fears—fear of rejection, fear of abandonment. When couples are caught in conflict, they tend to focus on being right rather than being connected. Regret becomes difficult to process because it requires vulnerability—admitting, “I hurt you, and I wish I hadn’t.” But this vulnerability is the pathway to growth.

Nick:
Marshall, your Nonviolent Communication framework is known for helping people navigate difficult conversations. How does NVC approach moments of regret?

Marshall Rosenberg:
Nonviolent Communication emphasizes identifying the unmet needs behind our actions. For example, if I’ve said something hurtful, I might reflect and say, “I realize I was trying to express my frustration, but I didn’t meet my need for connection in a kind way.” Regret becomes an opportunity to understand not only our own needs but also our partner’s needs, which were likely unmet in that moment too.

Nick:
Esther, your work often focuses on the dynamics of repair in relationships. How do you view regret as a tool for connection?

Esther Perel:
Regret is a doorway to empathy. When a partner expresses regret, they’re essentially saying, “I see your pain, and I feel responsible for it.” This acknowledgment validates the hurt and creates an opening for repair. But what’s equally important is how the injured partner responds. If they can meet regret with curiosity rather than punishment, the couple can rebuild trust together.

Nick:
Harriet, you’ve said that apologies are critical in repairing relationships. What makes an effective apology, and how does it differ from a superficial one?

Harriet Lerner:
An effective apology doesn’t minimize or justify the behavior. It might sound like, “I’m deeply sorry for interrupting you earlier. I realize it made you feel dismissed, and that wasn’t my intention.” The key is to focus on the injured partner’s experience, rather than explaining your actions. A bad apology, on the other hand, might start with “I’m sorry, but…” which shifts the focus back to yourself.

Nick:
Marshall, how can couples avoid defensiveness when discussing conflict or regret?

Marshall Rosenberg:
Defensiveness usually arises from fear of blame. In Nonviolent Communication, we encourage replacing blame with observations and feelings. Instead of saying, “You never listen to me,” you might say, “When I’m sharing something important and you’re on your phone, I feel unimportant.” This invites dialogue rather than triggering defensiveness.

Nick:
Esther, once conflict arises, how do couples move from anger to understanding?

Esther Perel:
First, slow down the interaction. Take a pause if emotions are running high. Then, ask yourself, “What is the story I’m telling myself about this conflict?” Often, we jump to conclusions like, “They don’t care about me.” When couples share these inner narratives openly, they create opportunities for clarification and connection. Anger can transform into a deeper understanding of each other’s vulnerabilities.

Nick:
I love that idea of transforming anger. Harriet, how does processing regret help couples grow in the long term?

Harriet Lerner:
When couples handle regret constructively, they learn to trust each other’s intentions even during conflict. This trust acts as a buffer in future disagreements. It’s not about never making mistakes—it’s about showing your partner, “I’ll own my mistakes, and I’ll keep working to do better.”

Nick:
Marshall, could you give us an example of how a couple might use Nonviolent Communication to process a regrettable incident?

Marshall Rosenberg:
Certainly. Let’s say one partner forgot an important date. The injured partner could say, “When you forgot our anniversary, I felt hurt because I value being celebrated on special days.” The other partner might respond, “I hear that you felt hurt because you value being celebrated. I regret forgetting and want to support that need moving forward.” This process fosters mutual understanding.

Nick:
Esther, any closing thoughts on using regret as a tool for connection?

Esther Perel:
Regret is not the end of the story—it’s the beginning of a dialogue. When couples embrace it as an invitation to learn about each other’s inner worlds, they can transform even painful moments into opportunities for intimacy and growth.

Nick:
Thank you, Harriet, Marshall, and Esther, for this enlightening conversation. Your insights offer couples a clear path to turn conflict and regret into a source of deeper connection.

Takeaway:

This conversation highlights how addressing regret with empathy, curiosity, and effective communication can transform conflict into growth. Techniques like Nonviolent Communication, genuine apologies, and vulnerability pave the way for healing and trust.

Creating Rituals of Connection—How Weekly Practices Can Transform Love

Nick Sasaki (Moderator):
Welcome, everyone. Today, we’re exploring how creating rituals of connection can strengthen relationships. Let’s begin with you, Dr. Gottman. What are rituals of connection, and why are they so important in relationships?

Dr. John Gottman:
Thank you, Nick. Rituals of connection are intentional activities or routines couples create to foster intimacy and bonding. These can be as simple as having coffee together every morning or celebrating weekly check-ins, like the ones we use in our relationship tools. The key is that these rituals are predictable, shared moments that help couples feel secure and connected amidst life’s chaos.

Nick:
William, your work on family rituals ties closely to this. How do rituals differ in a family setting versus in romantic relationships?

William Doherty:
Rituals in families often focus on structure—like having dinner together or celebrating birthdays—to create a sense of belonging. In romantic relationships, rituals are about maintaining emotional intimacy. These might include weekly date nights or even small gestures like kissing goodbye each morning. The goal is to create a rhythm in your relationship that reinforces connection.

Nick:
James, your book Atomic Habits emphasizes the power of small, consistent actions. How can couples apply this idea when building rituals of connection?

James Clear:
Great question, Nick. Couples can start by identifying one small habit they can integrate into their daily or weekly routine. For instance, instead of aiming for grand gestures, commit to something simple like saying “I love you” every night before bed. The idea is to make it easy, obvious, and consistent. Over time, these small habits compound into meaningful rituals.

Nick:
John, what are some examples of rituals that you’ve found particularly effective in your research?

Dr. John Gottman:
A classic example is the “stress-reducing conversation,” where couples spend 15–20 minutes at the end of each day discussing their external stresses—not to solve problems, but simply to listen and empathize. Another is having a weekly check-in, where partners reflect on what’s going well and what needs attention. These rituals create opportunities for emotional intimacy and trust.

Nick:
William, how do couples make these rituals sustainable? What challenges do they typically face?

William Doherty:
Sustainability comes from anchoring rituals to existing routines. For instance, if you already have breakfast together, turn it into a gratitude moment where you share one thing you appreciate about each other. Challenges often arise when life gets busy, so the key is prioritization. Couples need to view these rituals as investments in their relationship, not optional extras.

Nick:
James, how does habit formation help couples overcome those challenges?

James Clear:
The key is to stack new rituals onto existing habits. For example, if you already watch TV together in the evening, use that time to hold hands or share highlights from your day. Habit stacking minimizes the effort needed to create new routines. And don’t aim for perfection—focus on consistency, even if it’s just a few minutes each day.

Nick:
John, you often emphasize meaning in rituals. How do couples ensure their rituals feel meaningful rather than mechanical?

Dr. John Gottman:
Meaning comes from intentionality. For example, a date night isn’t just about going out; it’s about dedicating time to reconnect. Talk about what the ritual means to both of you and how it reflects your values as a couple. When rituals are rooted in shared meaning, they become emotionally enriching rather than a chore.

Nick:
William, can rituals also help couples navigate tough times or conflicts?

William Doherty:
Absolutely. Rituals can act as a stabilizing force during turbulence. For instance, a couple going through stress might find comfort in their nightly “connection time,” where they sit together without distractions. Rituals remind couples of their shared foundation and provide a sense of normalcy even in difficult times.

Nick:
James, what advice would you give couples who are starting from scratch and want to build rituals of connection?

James Clear:
Start small. Choose one ritual—maybe a weekly check-in or a morning kiss—and focus on making it consistent. Use cues, like setting a reminder or tying it to an existing habit, to reinforce it. Over time, you can layer on more rituals as they become second nature.

Nick:
John, any closing thoughts on how couples can transform their relationships through rituals?

Dr. John Gottman:
Rituals are like emotional anchors. They ground couples in their shared life and values. The most important thing is to be intentional, consistent, and to adapt rituals as your relationship evolves.

Nick:
Thank you, John, William, and James, for this insightful discussion. It’s clear that creating and sustaining rituals of connection is a powerful way to build stronger, more resilient relationships.

Takeaway:

This conversation emphasizes that rituals of connection—whether daily habits or weekly practices—act as emotional anchors in relationships. Starting small, being intentional, and integrating rituals into existing routines make them sustainable and meaningful. Over time, these practices deepen intimacy and resilience in relationships.

Creating Rituals of Connection—How Weekly Practices Can Transform Love

Nick Sasaki (Moderator):
Welcome, everyone! We’re here to talk about creating rituals of connection and how they can transform love and strengthen relationships. Dr. Gottman, let’s start with you. Why are rituals so important in relationships?

Dr. John Gottman:
Thank you, Nick. Rituals of connection are essential because they create moments of predictability, trust, and closeness in a relationship. These rituals can be as simple as saying “Good morning” with a kiss or as structured as a weekly check-in. They provide couples with a shared rhythm that makes them feel more secure and emotionally connected.

Nick:
William, your work has focused on rituals in family and marriage. What role do these rituals play in the dynamics of a family or couple?

William Doherty:
Rituals act as glue in relationships. For families, they foster belonging and identity—things like family dinners or holiday traditions. In couples, rituals help create a safe and predictable space for intimacy. A simple example is how couples might debrief after work or share coffee every morning. These small, consistent acts reinforce their bond and remind them of what they value in their relationship.

Nick:
James, habits are your expertise. How do you see habits and rituals working together to strengthen relationships?

James Clear:
Great question, Nick. Habits and rituals both rely on consistency. The difference is that rituals carry more emotional weight—they’re habits with meaning attached. Couples can take small habits, like a nightly “How was your day?” check-in, and infuse it with intention. Over time, this creates a ritual that not only strengthens the relationship but becomes a cherished part of their routine.

Nick:
Dr. Gottman, in your research, what are some examples of rituals that have a lasting impact on relationships?

Dr. John Gottman:
Some of the most impactful rituals are daily moments of connection. For example, I often recommend “partings and reunions.” Before leaving for the day, take a moment to connect—ask about their plans or wish them well. When you reunite, greet them with warmth and enthusiasm. Another powerful ritual is a weekly state-of-the-union meeting, where couples reflect on the past week, express appreciations, and plan for the future. These rituals deepen emotional intimacy.

Nick:
William, what challenges do couples face when trying to implement rituals, and how can they overcome them?

William Doherty:
The biggest challenge is consistency. Life gets busy, and rituals can fall by the wayside. The key is to start small and prioritize them. Another challenge is differing expectations—what one partner values might not resonate with the other. Communication is critical here. Discuss what rituals feel meaningful to both partners and agree on what you’ll commit to together.

Nick:
James, how can couples leverage habit-formation techniques to make their rituals stick?

James Clear:
The key is to anchor rituals to existing habits. For instance, if you already have dinner together, add a moment of gratitude—each partner shares one thing they appreciate about the other. This is what I call habit stacking. You’re tying the ritual to something you’re already doing, which makes it easier to sustain. Another tip is to make it frictionless: reduce barriers so that it’s simple to follow through.

Nick:
Dr. Gottman, what makes a ritual meaningful rather than just routine? How can couples avoid making it feel mechanical?

Dr. John Gottman:
The meaning comes from intention and emotional presence. A ritual is meaningful when it’s not just about the act itself but about what it represents. For example, a couple might hold hands every night while watching TV. It’s not the act of holding hands—it’s the message it sends: “I’m here with you, and we’re connected.” To avoid it feeling mechanical, talk about the purpose of the ritual and adapt it as needed to keep it fresh and relevant.

Nick:
William, can rituals also help couples navigate difficult times or conflicts?

William Doherty:
Absolutely. In fact, rituals can be a stabilizing force during tough times. Let’s say a couple is dealing with financial stress. A weekly ritual of sitting down together to review their budget can create a sense of teamwork and reduce anxiety. Rituals give couples a way to reaffirm their commitment, even in the face of challenges.

Nick:
James, any final tips for couples who want to start creating rituals today?

James Clear:
Start with something small and easy to implement. For example, commit to a “goodnight” ritual where you always say something positive to each other before bed. Make it consistent and focus on the emotional connection. Over time, you’ll see how these small actions add up to create something much greater.

Nick:
Dr. Gottman, William, and James, thank you so much for this enlightening conversation. It’s clear that rituals are not just about routines but about creating intentional, meaningful moments that deepen love and connection.

Takeaway:

This conversation highlights that rituals of connection—when rooted in intention and emotional presence—can transform relationships. By starting small, anchoring them to existing habits, and making them emotionally meaningful, couples can create lasting traditions that deepen intimacy and resilience.

Balancing Autonomy and Togetherness in Modern Relationships

Nick Sasaki (Moderator):
Thank you all for joining this discussion. Today, we’re exploring a timeless yet modern question: how can couples balance autonomy and togetherness in their relationships? Esther, let’s begin with you. Why does this tension between independence and intimacy exist?

Esther Perel:
Thank you, Nick. The tension arises because we all have dual needs: the desire for security and belonging, and the need for freedom and individuality. In traditional relationships, the focus was on togetherness. Today, we ask our partners not only to provide love and stability but also to respect our independence and personal growth. This dual expectation is both beautiful and complex—it creates a dynamic tension that needs to be managed, not resolved.

Nick:
Carl, you’ve emphasized the importance of self-actualization in relationships. How does fostering individuality contribute to a healthy partnership?

Carl Rogers:
Individuality is essential because a relationship is strongest when both partners are fully themselves. When each person feels free to explore their own potential, they bring their best self to the relationship. True intimacy doesn’t come from merging identities but from two whole individuals connecting authentically. This requires unconditional positive regard—accepting your partner as they are, while also supporting their growth.

Nick:
Brené, your work on vulnerability connects closely to this. How does vulnerability help couples navigate the balance between autonomy and intimacy?

Brené Brown:
Vulnerability is the bridge between autonomy and intimacy. It allows us to say, “This is who I am, and I want to share it with you.” It’s not about losing yourself in the relationship; it’s about showing up fully as yourself. When we embrace vulnerability, we can ask for what we need—whether it’s space or closeness—without fear of rejection. This openness builds trust and connection.

Nick:
Esther, how do couples negotiate this balance without feeling like one person is sacrificing too much for the other?

Esther Perel:
It starts with dialogue. Couples need to ask, “What does togetherness mean to you? What does independence mean to you?” These definitions vary from person to person. The goal isn’t to compromise endlessly but to find creative solutions that honor both partners' needs. For instance, if one person values time alone and the other values shared activities, they might plan dedicated “me-time” alongside “us-time.”

Nick:
Carl, how does empathy play into this balance? How can couples ensure they’re supporting each other’s individuality?

Carl Rogers:
Empathy is crucial because it allows you to truly understand your partner’s perspective. When your partner says, “I need space to pursue my hobbies,” instead of seeing it as a rejection, you can empathize and recognize their need for self-expression. This understanding fosters trust. When empathy is present, partners feel safe to explore their autonomy while staying connected.

Nick:
Brené, what role does courage play in maintaining this balance, especially when one partner feels threatened by the other’s independence?

Brené Brown:
It takes courage to lean into discomfort. For example, if your partner says, “I want to spend a weekend with my friends,” you might feel fear or insecurity. Courage means acknowledging those feelings without acting out of them. Instead, you can communicate honestly: “I support you, but it’s hard for me because I feel distant when you’re away.” This kind of dialogue deepens trust and fosters balance.

Nick:
Esther, are there rituals or practices couples can use to maintain both autonomy and connection?

Esther Perel:
Absolutely. One practice is creating intentional check-ins, where partners share what they’re pursuing individually and how the relationship can support that growth. Another is establishing rituals of reconnection, like greeting each other warmly after time apart. These small moments remind couples that they’re a team, even as they pursue separate goals.

Nick:
Carl, how can couples ensure that their pursuit of individuality doesn’t lead to emotional distance?

Carl Rogers:
The key is openness. Couples should keep the lines of communication wide open, sharing not only their activities but their thoughts and emotions. For example, if one partner is deeply engaged in a personal project, they might say, “I’m really excited about this, but I also want to make sure we’re staying connected. How can we balance this together?” This openness keeps the emotional bond strong.

Nick:
Brené, any final thoughts on how couples can embrace both autonomy and intimacy in a way that strengthens their relationship?

Brené Brown:
I’d say it comes down to mutual respect and trust. Respect your partner’s need to be their own person, and trust that their individuality doesn’t diminish the love between you—it enhances it. Balancing autonomy and intimacy isn’t about perfection; it’s about showing up consistently with vulnerability, courage, and love.

Nick:
Esther, any closing thoughts?

Esther Perel:
Yes. Relationships are a dance between closeness and space. The challenge isn’t to eliminate the tension but to embrace it. When couples learn to honor both their togetherness and their individuality, they create a relationship that is both stable and dynamic—a true partnership.

Nick:
Thank you, Esther, Carl, and Brené, for this enlightening discussion. It’s clear that balancing autonomy and togetherness is an ongoing process that requires empathy, communication, and mutual respect.

Takeaway:

This conversation emphasizes that the balance between autonomy and intimacy is not a problem to solve but a dynamic to embrace. Through empathy, vulnerability, and open communication, couples can honor both their individuality and their shared connection, creating a partnership that thrives on mutual growth and trust.

The Role of Appreciation in Healing and Strengthening Relationships

Nick Sasaki (Moderator):
Welcome, everyone! Today, we’re discussing how appreciation can be a transformative force in relationships, healing wounds and building stronger connections. Louise, let’s start with you. How does the practice of appreciation impact relationships at an emotional level?

Louise Hay:
Thank you, Nick. Appreciation shifts the energy between partners. When you focus on what you love about someone, rather than what frustrates you, you create an environment of positivity and love. Affirmations like, “I appreciate how thoughtful you are,” nurture the relationship and heal emotional wounds over time. It’s a simple practice, but its effects can be profound.

Nick:
Robert, your research on gratitude highlights its impact on well-being. How does gratitude strengthen relationships specifically?

Robert Emmons:
Gratitude fosters connection. When one partner expresses gratitude, it not only makes the other person feel valued but also reinforces their own sense of commitment to the relationship. Gratitude also helps partners reframe challenges. For example, instead of focusing on what a partner didn’t do, you can recognize the ways they contribute, even in small ways. This mindset strengthens the bond and builds resilience.

Nick:
Kristin, your work focuses on self-compassion. How does self-compassion intersect with appreciation in relationships?

Kristin Neff:
Self-compassion is critical because you can’t fully appreciate someone else if you’re constantly critical of yourself. When you treat yourself with kindness, it’s easier to extend that kindness to your partner. For example, if you forget an anniversary, practicing self-compassion helps you own the mistake without spiraling into self-criticism, allowing you to repair the situation with gratitude and sincerity.

Nick:
Louise, you often talk about affirmations. How can couples use affirmations to build a habit of appreciation in their daily lives?

Louise Hay:
Affirmations are a powerful tool for shifting your mindset. A simple one like, “I am grateful for the love we share,” repeated daily, can keep your focus on what’s good in your relationship. You can also share affirmations with your partner—such as saying, “I love how you support me,” or “I appreciate your humor.” These verbal affirmations create a cycle of positivity and connection.

Nick:
Robert, what’s the science behind why expressing appreciation can repair conflicts or misunderstandings?

Robert Emmons:
When you express appreciation, it activates positive emotions, which can counterbalance the negativity that often arises in conflict. It also signals to your partner that you see their worth beyond the disagreement. For example, saying, “I know we’ve had a tough conversation, but I really value your patience in hearing me out,” shifts the focus from the conflict to the strength of the relationship.

Nick:
Kristin, what advice would you give to someone who struggles to appreciate their partner during challenging times?

Kristin Neff:
Start by practicing mindfulness. Notice your emotions and the stories you’re telling yourself about your partner. Often, frustration stems from unmet needs or stress rather than the partner’s actions. Once you’re aware of this, take a moment to reflect on what you do appreciate. Even in difficult times, there’s usually something—maybe their effort or their presence—that you can acknowledge. This shift in perspective can soften resentment and open the door for connection.

Nick:
Louise, how can couples rebuild appreciation when it’s been lost over time due to neglect or long-term conflict?

Louise Hay:
Healing starts with small steps. Begin by silently affirming, “I am willing to see the good in my partner.” From there, express one small appreciation daily, even if it feels awkward at first. Over time, this practice will rekindle the positive energy between you. Remember, change starts with willingness and consistent effort.

Nick:
Robert, can you share a specific practice that couples can use to cultivate gratitude together?

Robert Emmons:
One simple yet effective practice is keeping a shared gratitude journal. Each day, both partners write down one thing they’re grateful for about each other. Over time, this creates a record of positivity that you can look back on, especially during tough times. It’s a powerful way to build and sustain gratitude in the relationship.

Nick:
Kristin, how does self-compassion help when appreciation isn’t reciprocated?

Kristin Neff:
When appreciation isn’t reciprocated, self-compassion reminds you that your worth isn’t tied to external validation. Instead of feeling hurt or rejected, you can say to yourself, “It’s okay. I’m doing my best, and I deserve kindness from myself.” This helps you stay grounded and open to future moments of connection, even if your partner isn’t immediately responsive.

Nick:
Finally, any parting thoughts on how couples can use appreciation as a foundation for stronger relationships?

Louise Hay:
Love grows where gratitude is nurtured. Start every day by focusing on what you appreciate about your partner, and watch your relationship transform.

Robert Emmons:
Gratitude is the glue that holds relationships together. Make it a daily habit, and it will pay dividends in trust and connection.

Kristin Neff:
Be kind to yourself and your partner. Appreciation flows naturally when you cultivate compassion, both inward and outward.

Nick:
Thank you, Louise, Robert, and Kristin, for this enlightening discussion. Your insights show how appreciation is a simple yet profound way to heal and strengthen relationships.

Takeaway:

This conversation highlights the transformative power of appreciation in relationships. By combining gratitude practices, affirmations, and self-compassion, couples can create a positive emotional environment that fosters healing, trust, and deep connection.

Short Bios:

Dr. John Gottman
Renowned psychologist and relationship expert, Dr. John Gottman is the co-founder of the Gottman Institute. His decades of research focus on what makes relationships thrive, including his groundbreaking work on emotional connection and trust.

Sue Johnson
Clinical psychologist and creator of Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), Sue Johnson specializes in helping couples build secure and lasting emotional bonds. Her work bridges the science of attachment and practical tools for intimacy.

Daniel Goleman
Psychologist and author of the best-selling book Emotional Intelligence, Daniel Goleman is a leading voice on how emotional awareness and empathy impact relationships and personal success.

Harriet Lerner
Psychologist and author of The Dance of Anger, Harriet Lerner is an expert on managing emotions in relationships, helping individuals and couples navigate conflict and build meaningful connections.

Marshall Rosenberg
Founder of Nonviolent Communication (NVC), Marshall Rosenberg is a globally recognized peacemaker. His techniques empower individuals to communicate compassionately and resolve conflicts in personal and professional relationships.

Esther Perel
Relationship therapist and author of Mating in Captivity and The State of Affairs, Esther Perel explores the intersection of intimacy, desire, and independence in modern relationships.

William Doherty
A marriage and family therapist, William Doherty is an expert on creating rituals and structure in relationships to foster intimacy and connection. His work emphasizes the role of shared traditions in strengthening bonds.

James Clear
Author of the best-selling book Atomic Habits, James Clear is a leading expert on habit formation. His insights help couples integrate small, consistent practices to create lasting positive change in their relationships.

Louise Hay
Pioneer of self-healing and affirmations, Louise Hay is the author of You Can Heal Your Life. Her teachings emphasize the power of gratitude and positive thinking to transform relationships and self-perception.

Robert Emmons
A psychologist and gratitude researcher, Robert Emmons is the author of Thanks! and a leading voice on how gratitude enhances emotional and relational well-being.

Kristin Neff
One of the world’s foremost experts on self-compassion, Kristin Neff is the author of Self-Compassion. Her work highlights how kindness toward oneself strengthens emotional resilience and relationships.