08 Feb (Self) Love is in the Air
(Self) Love is in the Air
With Valentine’s Day fast approaching, what better topic to discuss than LOVE?! However, let’s shift focus slightly away from our significant other/loved one (Sorry, Cupid) and take a different approach. What about SELF love? What is it? Why is it important, and what are some practices you can add to your life to feel the (self) love?
Have you heard the saying “You can’t love someone else until you truly love yourself.”? As it implies, self love starts from within. There are several components to it (we’ll mention later on), but in general, it’s taking a look at yourself, recognizing, accepting, and ultimately loving what you see about yourself. Self love is believed to be important because it’s “impossible to pour from an empty cup”; if your cup (i.e. you) are full of love, acceptance, and appreciation for yourself, you’re able to “pour” out love to others.
Learning to practice loving yourself is just another way to learn how to love others. Here are some examples of how to practice self-love:
Acceptance.
We’re all unique, make mistakes, and are imperfect beings. Learning to accept yourself for who you are, “flaws” and all, is the most important step to self-love. Comparisons put us in a negative state, and have the tendency to cause feelings of inadequacy. Rather, see yourself for who you are, embrace, and LOVE the qualities (both physical and emotional) you possess. We were created as individuals to add our own special energy to this world. Embrace it.
Declutter.
Messy living and work spaces can result in a sense of chaos and disarray, affecting us internally. An open, organized space, however, can be freeing, uplifting, and provide room to invite more, positive things into your life. Start small: put clothes away, organize files that have been laying around, or clean out your closet at the end of each season. Out with the old, and in with the new, right?!
Nourish yourself.
Take care of your body. It’s a magnificent temple with the power to heal and create life. Self-care techniques such as nourishing your body with real, whole foods, drinking water, taking a detox bath, exercising, and prioritizing quality rest and recovery are all ways of showing your body the love it needs (and deserves!).
Be grateful.
In today’s world, we’re bombarded with negative news stories, harsh bullying, and violence; it’s no wonder our inner dialogue tends to mimic that and focus on negatives. It may be either physical or mental/emotional. How can you see the silver lining in everything that happens?
I challenge you to look for positives in situations. Finding things to be grateful for, and even keeping a daily log, can flip a switch on your inner dialogue.
Let it go.
Problems and challenges are going to arise. That’s life. However, some things are out of your control (okay, most things), so to hold on, try to control, and become anxious about the outcome will only cause more strife. You cannot change nor save everyone in every situation. If you learn to establish boundaries for yourself, offer help as necessary, and say no/let it go, when things start to affect your life negatively. Walk away. Sometimes it’s for the best and shows you love yourself and others more than being involved in the problem would.
Forgive.
No one is perfect. We may try to be, but we’re human; we’re flawed, and we come short. Instead of beating yourself up over another “failed” diet, missed workout, or negative thought, forgive yourself. If you play it safe, and never try new things so you won’t fail, you’re not learning and growing. Be proud that you tried. Mistakes teach us valuable lessons and mold us into the person we are, so don’t be so hard on yourself. Forgive.
You’re amazing just the way you are, and the thoughts and behaviors you exude towards yourself will overflow into your actions towards others. Notice how your relationships and life in general change as you practice more self-love.
-Health & Wellness Coach
Michelle C.
Resources:
https://life-happens.co.uk/self-love-podcast/
https://www.mindbodygreen.com/0-23724/14-ways-to-practice-self-love-on-valentines-day-or-any-day.html