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What is Self-Love?
As the term suggests, self-love entails the act of cherishing and valuing oneself. Although this concept appears straightforward, it often becomes intricate and multifaceted when you begin experiencing it. Let’s understand how and why?
Recall a moment when you were looking at the bathroom mirror without makeup, without proper dressing, a simple morning face. You would have found yourself pointing out tons of flaws, perhaps the strands of grey hair, a pimple, freckles, pigmentation, or some extra pounds. It’s highly unlikely that you engaged in self-admiration during such instances.
Now, if you look at someone you love the most, would you focus on their imperfections? Most likely not, as we always treasure those we love. By pointing out flaws in the very first look, we don’t even realize how unconsciously we are unloving ourselves. Often, without even realizing it, we swiftly transition into a mode of self-criticizing or self-sabotaging.
Importance of Self-Love
Without a doubt, love is undoubtedly the most powerful feeling in existence. It is the most effective healing method existing on this planet. Now imagine we can use this magic to heal ourselves by giving this unconditional love to our own being. Cultivating self-love has the potential to bring your life to its fullest potential.
Essentials of Self-Love
Embrace your own being with the same profound care that you reserve for those you cherish. Central to this endeavor is the practice of self-kindness. Nurture yourself with compassion and extend that kindness to your body, mind, and soul. Your body, mind, and soul are intertwined, one impacting the other. Anger and resentment, for example, not just impact your mental health but are also stored in your body, manifesting as ailments or afflictions. This interconnectedness underscores the paramount significance of nurturing self-love across all layers of your being.
Love Your Body
It’s crucial to foster affection and acceptance for your body by being comfortable in your skin. You might have noticed that confident people always look more attractive than those striving for external validation. Therefore, express love for your body by nourishing it with a wholesome diet and engaging in regular exercise. Refrain from subjecting yourself to maltreatment through excessive consumption of junk food, alcohol, or any substances that undermine your well-being.
- Embrace your body and its unique features.
- Eat Healthy
- Exercise, keep your body moving
- Do not abuse your body by consuming alcohol or any unhealthy food
- Don’t go overboard to fit into beauty standards
Love Your Mind
Engage in activities that bring you tranquility and inner satisfaction. Whether it’s indulging in a treat meal, savoring a cup of coffee at your preferred café, or embarking on a getaway with friends, prioritize experiences that soothe your soul and fill you with joy.
- Take out some time for yourself and simply do what you love
- Have healthy social connections or Friends
- Don’t be a people pleaser
- Understand the difference between sacrificing and compromising
- Choose your thoughts wisely
- Read good books and try to adopt good habits
- Practice mindfulness and gratefulness
Love Your Soul
Loving your soul represents the most profound manifestation of self-love – forging a connection with your inner essence and expressing affection towards it. Just as communication is pivotal in interpersonal love, it holds equal significance in self-love. Engage in a dialogue with your inner self, acknowledging and embracing your emotions. Many of us tend to bury emotions like fear, anger, hatred, and resentment, allowing them to accumulate within us. Consequently, these suppressed feelings often shape our behaviors and perspectives, impacting our well-being and relationships.
- Connect with your higher self or offer prayer
- Meditate or take an inward journey to identify your innermost emotions
- Be patient with yourself
How to Practice Self Love
Mirror Technique
This approach is highly recommended by numerous counselors for its efficacy. Begin by taking a deep breath and gazing at your reflection in the mirror. While looking into your eyes, express your self-love verbally. Convey the depth of your affection for yourself and acknowledge the challenges you’ve conquered. Share how truly you admire the way you look. It might feel uncanny in the beginning but continue practicing the technique.
Journaling
Journaling serves as another potent strategy for nurturing your subconscious mind to embrace self-love instinctively. Keep a journal and document what you love about yourself. What did you do today that you enjoyed the most? What made you happy? These seemingly minor actions yield a substantial influence, gradually molding your mindset toward self-love.
Affirmations
Harness the power of affirmations that resonate with you. Tailor your affirmation practice to suit your individual style – whether that involves writing, singing, or vocalizing them aloud. This practice holds paramount importance as it functions as a conduit, transmitting messages both to your subconscious mind and the Universe.
Know 25 Affirmations for Healing: Transform your Physical, Mental, Emotional, and Spiritual Self
Conclusion
Love is one of the most remarkable expressions, one that should never be misconstrued as selfish or lead to excessive self-indulgence or narcissism. It’s imperative to distinguish it from notions that are self-centered or lack consideration for others, and to avoid veering to the extreme ends of self-love or becoming excessively self-absorbed. Practice self-love with the right balance, ensuring that it never loses its magic touch.
