Self Love, what is it?
Self-love is the practice of taking care of and being kind to yourself. It involves recognizing and respecting your own needs, wants, and feelings and taking the necessary steps to meet those needs. It is about honoring who you are, embracing your imperfections, and loving yourself unconditionally. Self-love is essential for our mental, physical, and emotional wellbeing, and is a key component to living a healthier and happier life.
As women we often feel we have to put ourselves aside for everyone else. As wives our husband's needs come before ours. As mother's our children come first. As business women, the needs of our clients are sometimes more important than our own.
Women are naturally nurturers. So why is it so hard to show that same energy to ourselves.
Looking back, I don't recall having conversations about self-love or seeing is modeled for that matter. In my mid-twenties I heard the term and the idea around it, but it wasn't until recently that I began to fully understand what it meant to love myself. In doing so, I was able to see a shift in the world around me. My interactions were different, my compassion for others grew, because I showed myself more. I gave myself grace, which gave permission to show others the same. Self-love has increased my understanding for love beyond myself.
So if you are someone who feels that Self-love is a selfish act, rest in knowing loving yourself first, fills you up, to offer love to others.
Enough about the philosophical idea of self love, below I have provided some tips to help you practice it for yourself:
10 ways to experience selflove
Spend time with yourself and get to know who you are (your likes & dislikes, your dreams & passions).
Challenge negative thoughts: Notice and challenge any negative self-talk. Replace them with positive, affirming thoughts.
Write down positive affirmations about yourself and repeat them daily.
Practice gratitude by writing down three things you’re thankful for each day.
Celebrate your accomplishments, no matter how small.
Forgive yourself - sometimes its unforgiveness that makes us believe we are not worthy of love - even from ourselves.
Set healthy boundaries - this is huge. Love yourself enough to set boundaries & consequences for those who may cross them.
Make time for your hobbies and passions.
Celebrate your accomplishments, no matter how small.
Accept and BE your true self - All of you is loveable.
The love you show yourself tells everyone else how to love you!
If you would like help applying these steps, I would love to work with you. Click the Contact tab above to schedule a free consultation with me.
Be well