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COMPASSION CULTIVATION 

TRAINING 

Compassion Cultivation Training (CCT) is an 8-week course designed to develop the qualities of compassion, empathy, and kindness for oneself and others. The course, developed by a team of contemplative scholars, clinical psychologists, and researchers at Stanford University, combines traditional contemplative practices with contemporary psychology and scientific research on compassion.

The three key components of self-compassion are self-kindness, a sense of common humanity, and balanced, mindful awareness. Kindness opens our hearts to suffering, so we can give ourselves what we need. Common humanity opens us to others, so that we know we aren’t alone. Mindfulness opens us to the present moment, so we can accept our experience with greater ease. Together they comprise a state of warm, connected, presence during difficult moments in our lives.

Expanding beyond mindfulness, compassion arises both on the personal level of our individual relationships and on the global level of cultures and nations interacting with one another. His Holiness the Dalai Lama has said that the problems of the world – social, economic, environmental, and so on – are best understood and viewed through the lens of compassion. With compassion, our empathy for the suffering of others can give rise to altruism – bringing immediate and long-term happiness and tranquility to our lives.

Humans have a natural capacity for compassion. However, everyday stress, social pressures, and life experiences can suppress it –potentially resulting in physical and psychological problems. The good news is that we can train ourselves to nurture others while developing our compassionate instinct. This process requires patience, steady care, proper tools, and a supportive environment.

Why Enroll?

Compassion training extends beyond helping one feel more empathy and concern for others. It includes the development of:

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  • The strength to be with suffering

  • The courage to take compassionate action

  • The resilience to prevent compassion fatigue

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Who We Encourage to Attend:

  • Parents and caregivers

  • Educators

  • Healthcare professionals and therapists

  • Executives and managers

  • Public service leaders and employees

  • Individuals seeking to increase awareness and mindfulness

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People working in a wide range of professions and life contexts can benefit from this program. No previous meditation experience is required, although willingness to practice daily meditation is a key component of the training.

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This Training Includes:

  • Mindfulness: Guided daily meditation, visualization, and breathing practices to be done at home to develop loving-kindness, empathy, and compassion

  • Coursework: A weekly 2-hour class that include lecture, discussion, meditation, and in-class listening and communication exercises with partners and small groups

  • Assignments: Real-world homework to help you practice compassionate thought and action

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Please visit our Schedule page to enroll in this course, or contact us if you are interested in enrolling or learning more.

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