Talk
The Science of Self-Compassion | Kristin Neff | Talks at Google
A Talks at Google session on the research behind self-compassion practice.
About the teacher
Kristin Neff
Kristin Neff, a professor at the University of Texas at Austin, was among the first psychologists to develop a rigorous research programme on self-compassion, drawing on mindfulness and Buddhist psychology while keeping her published work firmly within an academic, evidence-based frame. With Christopher Germer she co-developed Mindful Self-Compassion (MSC), now taught internationally as a structured programme.
She continues to teach continuing-education workshops and the MSC programme with Germer, including an online Self-Compassion Essentials workshop in June 2026 and a live conversation with Jack Kornfield in April 2026.
“This is a moment of suffering. Suffering is part of life. May I be kind to myself.”Kristin Neff
Upcoming events
Meet Kristin Neff in person.
Talks, day programmes and retreats currently listed in the Paths Are Many calendar.
Talks & videos
Watch before you attend.
Short introductions and longer conversations, to hear this teacher in their own words.
Talk
The Space Between Self-Esteem and Self Compassion: Kristin Neff at TEDxCentennialParkWomen
Neff's TEDx talk distinguishing self-compassion from self-esteem, drawing on her research.
Path
The wider context.
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Secular attention training
Mindfulness
A secular, evidence-based approach to attention and awareness, developed from Buddhist meditation practice for clinical and everyday use.
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