Abstract

This study focuses on the experience of adult women who live in a vulnerability psychosocial context, with anxiety and depression symptoms, that participated on a mindfulness and self-compassion training program complementary to individual psychotherapy. The study's objective was to determine which are the meanings associated to the way they relate themselves, after attending the workshop. Twenty two women among 18 and 76 years old from Pudahuel's COSAM (Mental Health Clinic) participated in these workshops. When the training ended, semi-structured interviews and a focal group wereimplemented, as well as a 6 month follow up after the workshop concluded. The interviews were recorded, transcribed and analyzed using the Grounded Theory. Results suggest, as the main phenomenon, the development of a gentle and comprehensive way to relate themselves with, which resulted on an efficient way to manage difficult moments. This gentle way to relate to themselves influenced positively in the way they relate to others and in their daily life, contributing to symptoms reduction and to increment subjective wellbeing.