When was the last time you looked in a mirror and checked in with your emotions? I’m guessing probably never? Most of us look at our reflections as something we need to check on to make sure everything is in place, and more often than not, to criticize our own appearance. Dr. Tara Well, psychology professor at Barnard College Columbia University, created The Mirror Meditation, a self-care exercise, in which a guided meditation while gazing at our own reflection, can teach us to relate to ourselves in a completely different, more compassionate way.

In this interview, Tara shares with us her personal story of when she discovered meditation in her teenage years and how it shaped what she is teaching and studying today.

Dr. Well's TedX talk, What Mirror Meditation Can Teach You | Tara Well | TEDxOcala explores this simple but powerful exercise.

Dr. Well also shares her expert knowledge on mind-body medicine, narcissism, the psychology of selfies, the mirror as a tool for dancers, models and actors, as well as insider tips on how to pitch and execute a TedX talk.