Finding self-love is an essential part of self-care.
So often we find ourselves taking care of others, putting loved ones first, and giving whatever we can, and while these concepts are not wrong, a problem can arise when we prioritize everyone and everything around us over caring for ourselves.
What is self-love?
In a nutshell, it means recognizing and attending to your own needs, wants, and desires. And, no, it is not selfish; it is about ensuring that you have the time to recharge as well as the energy and resources to help others. Why do you think when flying, you are reminded to put your own oxygen mask on first before looking to help others, if you are not able to breathe, how will you be able to help anyone around you including yourself?
How does self-love work?
It’s not complicated; it sounds a lot harder than it is, and it all starts with changing your self-talk. When you make a mistake, treat yourself with kindness, just as you would a loved one. Take some time for yourself to recharge; the goal is to love yourself as much as you love others and to follow the same advice you would give to others.
Despite the many benefits of self-love, research has shown that it is a habit that most people are less likely to practice, despite the fact that it leads to a few health benefits such as better sleep, stress management, eating habits, and exercise.
It also makes you more resilient in the face of adversity.
Here are some simple ways to practice some self-love and improve your well-being.
- Spend some time in nature
Fresh air has been shown to be therapeutic, and outdoor activities with others result in smiles and laughter. Plan a hike with your significant other or a bike ride with your children. Get outside and away from the screens. Spending time in nature helps you clear your mind and is an excellent way to get some exercise in a fun way.
- Do more of the things that are good for you and that you are good at
Did you know that the more thing you do that you are good at, the better you feel about yourself? Self-efficacy, or the belief that you are good at something, is linked to self-worth, and even small daily tasks that you are good at can boost your confidence. Don’t forget to make time for things like exercise if you know they’re good for you. Exercise causes various brain chemicals to be released, which can make you feel happier, more relaxed, and less anxious.
- Allow yourself to say no
It is impossible to please everyone and to be all things to all people. It’s difficult to give anything your all if you’re constantly trying to do it all, so saying no allows us to better navigate our lives and build a fulfilling, meaningful life on our own terms. This is especially important when trying to lose weight. You are allowed to say no while remaining kind, and sometimes setting limits, such as politely declining dessert before discussing how much you enjoyed the main course, can help.
- Consider starting a self-love journal
One of the best ways to honour the good in your life is to keep a daily gratitude journal. This gives you the opportunity to remind yourself of your strengths, what is going well, and how much you are loved. Consider reading your entries aloud to yourself; using multiple senses allows them to sink in and make you feel and believe them. You can return to them whenever you need a pick-me-up, or you can read them every day when you wake up to start your day on a positive note.
- And don’t forget, Treat yourself!
We often avoid spending money on ourselves, especially when we are under financial stress. However, even small splurges can put a smile on our faces and make us feel like our hard work is worthwhile. Little treats can be motivating, and they can be as simple as grabbing the lipstick you’ve been eyeing but won’t allow yourself to buy.
The responsibility for practicing self-love is entirely yours, and there is no better time to begin than now.
