With Hiroe Takeuchi — MSC Certified Teacher (Center for MSC, USA)
Free Self-Compassion Sessions — Online
Hiroe Takeuchi, an MSC Certified Teacher (Center for Mindful Self-Compassion, USA), holds free online self-compassion sessions every month — meditation sessions where you can feel the practice for yourself, and short introductory sessions where you can learn what self-compassion and Mindful Self-Compassion (MSC) are and try a few exercises. Each runs 60 minutes on Zoom, is completely free, and needs no background in meditation or psychology. They’re a gentle first step for anyone curious about being a little kinder to themselves — and especially welcoming to people building a life across cultures, who never quite feel they belong, wherever they are.
If you’re curious about self-compassion and you’d simply like to feel what it’s actually like, this is the easiest place to begin. Come for an hour. There’s nothing to prepare, and nothing you need to get right.
Two Kinds of Session
Two Kinds of Free Session
There are two kinds of free session, and you’re welcome at either — or both. They’re a relaxed way to meet self-compassion for yourself.
Meditation Sessions
A guided self-compassion meditation, followed by time to reflect together if you’d like to. These sessions are a chance to experience a real sense of self-compassion — not just as an idea, but as something you feel. Many people come back regularly, simply because it leaves them feeling calm, at peace, and relaxed.
Introductory Sessions
A short, friendly introduction to what self-compassion is — and what Mindful Self-Compassion (MSC) means — with a few exercises to try for yourself, and space for any questions. If you’re wondering “what is this, really?”, this is the session to come to.
At a Glance
At a Glance
| Cost | Free |
|---|---|
| Where | Online, via Zoom — join from anywhere in the world |
| Length | 60 minutes |
| How often | At least once a month |
| For whom | Complete beginners welcome — no meditation or psychology background needed |
| Language | English |
Who Comes to These Sessions
You don’t need a reason to come — curiosity is enough. But if any of this sounds like you, you’ll feel right at home:
- You’ve built a life across borders, and still carry a quiet “not enough” wherever you go
- You never quite feel you belong — at home, abroad, or somewhere in between
- You’re kind to everyone else, but hard on yourself
- You’ve read about self-compassion, but it hasn’t quite landed yet
- You’re simply curious, and would like to feel what it’s like for yourself
This Is for You — Even If…
You are welcome as you are.
- Even if you’ve never meditated before — that’s completely fine. These sessions are made for beginners.
- Even if your mind wanders, or you feel restless — there’s no “doing it right.” Whatever happens is welcome.
- Even if you’d rather just listen — sharing is always optional. You’re welcome to simply be there.
- Even if you only want to see what it’s like — that’s a perfectly good reason to come. Come once, with no expectations.
- Even if you’re not sure self-compassion is “for you” — that’s exactly what a free session is for.
And there’s nothing you need to do afterwards. You’re always welcome to come just for the session itself, as many times as you like. Being curious is reason enough.
What a Session Is Like
- A warm welcome, and a moment to arrive
- A short, plain-language word on what self-compassion is (no jargon)
- A guided self-compassion meditation, or a simple exercise to try
- Optional time to share a reflection — or simply to listen
- Space for any questions, if you have them
Sessions vary a little each time, but they always stay small, gentle, and unhurried.
What People Say
A few words from people who came to a free session:
“I didn’t know much about self-compassion, but within an hour I was surprised to find I had a felt sense of it.”
— Participant, free intro session
“Even though it was my first time, I felt completely at ease — and I was able to meet myself with self-compassion.”
— Participant, free meditation session
“Hiroe didn’t just teach — she listened and offered what we needed. I felt very safe.”
— Participant, free meditation session
About Your Teacher
Someone who has walked the same path
Hiroe Takeuchi teaches self-compassion as someone who has lived the same cycle her participants know — chasing the “next place,” country after country, and still feeling not enough. Born in China, raised in Japan, and living in the Netherlands, she teaches across cultures. She is an MSC Certified Teacher, certified by the Center for Mindful Self-Compassion (USA) — the home of the programme developed by Drs. Kristin Neff and Christopher Germer — and has guided more than 1,000 people in self-compassion.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it really free?
Yes — completely free. Just register on Eventbrite, and you’ll receive the Zoom link. There’s nothing to pay, before, during, or after.
I’ve never meditated before. Can I still join?
Absolutely. These sessions are made with complete beginners in mind — no meditation or psychology background needed. “I’m just a little curious” is reason enough to come.
Can I come to a free session and nothing more?
Of course. Many people come simply to see what it’s like, or to keep a gentle monthly practice — and that’s wonderful. You’re welcome to come as many times as you like, just for the sessions themselves.
I’m not comfortable speaking in groups. Do I have to share?
Not at all. Sharing is always optional. You’re warmly welcome to listen and simply be there. Many people do exactly that.
What’s the difference between a meditation session and an introductory session?
A meditation session is a chance to feel the practice — a guided self-compassion meditation, with optional time to reflect. An introductory session is more about understanding: what self-compassion and MSC are, with a few simple exercises to try. Both are free, and beginners are welcome at either.
Can I join from outside the Netherlands?
Yes. All sessions are held online via Zoom, so you’re welcome from anywhere in the world. Many participants are expats and international professionals joining across different time zones.
When is the next session, and how do I join?
Free sessions run at least once a month. You’ll find the next dates and register on Eventbrite — once you sign up, the Zoom link comes to you.
Begin Gently
Begin gently
The answer you’ve been looking for isn’t in the next place — it’s within. A free session is the softest place to start. No experience needed, no commitment, just an hour for yourself.
Not ready yet? Stay connected — gentle reminders and practical self-compassion tips: