How to love myself: 5 ways to be more loving towards yourself
The love we have for ourselves is arguably– if not the most important forms of love – there is. It is how we teach others to treat us and ultimately, love us. It has been said that the longest relationship we will ever have is the one we have with ourselves and learning to cultivate a loving relationship with ourselves takes time. Be patient and kind as we learn how to do this work.
Below are some ways that I have found to be more loving with myself. I hope they are helpful to you too:
1. Stop the Comparisons – Many of us are taught to compete from as early as childhood. And while competition itself is not inherently wrong and can be healthy to some extent, focusing on our own unique strengths and abilities can create an internal shift needed to feel a bit more free from the comparison trap that can be ever so draining.
2. Allow for Mistakes – Give yourself some breathing room! We are all human and therefore, we are all unique flawed. Making mistakes can allow us the opportunity to learn and grow. Forget the need to be perfect – it’s quite literally impossible and instead embrace the messiness that is being human. Practice self-compassion from your current level of understanding.
3. Find Value Outside of Appearance – Whenever I struggle with feelings of low self-esteem related to appearance, I remind myself of all the reasons I love and appreciate the friends and loved humans in my life. Every time I do, I think of a multitude of reasons that have nothing to do with how they look. Give it a try! 😉
4. Process Emotions and Fears – Not too long ago, I responded in a very reactive way to an old wound and trigger that presented itself to me in conversations with others. Initially, I felt embarrassed and even ashamed for it, but after some thought I realized I had not yet processed the very legitimate fear and worry I was feeling and the emotion was asking to be felt and released. This process is not easy but a therapist or close friend can be helpful when we are not able to do this alone.
5. Express Gratitude and See Beauty in the Little Things – When we train ourselves to express gratitude for the simple things, like having running water, and allow ourselves to see beauty in the small things over time, it can become easier to see the beauty in ourselves and gratitude for life.
What are some ways you can be more loving to yourself this week?
Join us for a Galentine’s on Valentine’s evening of connection, reflection, and relaxation. Love up on yourself and your best gal(s) and pal(s) with self-care rooted in intention.
Bring a friend and enjoy light refreshments as you mingle and meet new friends. Afterwards, you will have the option to participate in a short group journaling session, followed by a do-it-yourself (DIY) card-making session, and ending with a guided sound meditation focused on self-love. Everyone will leave with a flower bouquet in vase and a small gift bag from me (a $30 value).
Register here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/galentines-day-sound-meditation-for-self-love-journaling-bouquet-gift-tickets-519972791617
Message me flexible payment. No one will be turned away for lack of funds.
Love,
Evelyn
