Self-Love Day
For many of us, Valentine’s Day can bring up a lot of complex emotions. The historical focus has primarily been on romantic love, and while expressing love through flowers, cards, and chocolate is delightful, why not extend some of that love to ourselves? Whether you find yourself single, navigating a troubled relationship, or mourning a past one, I suggest we consider renaming Valentine’s Day to something more universal, compassionate, and inclusive. I’ve advocated for this change for years, broadening the celebration to include all forms of love we experience. This year, let’s reimagine it as Self-Love Day, honoring our hearts and our efforts to cultivate and balance the energy of love within us.
In the language of chakra energy, our heart chakra, located in the center of our chest, represents our right “to love and be loved”. Often in our culture, we seek this love externally, but did you know it’s something we can give ourselves any day, anytime? In fact, giving ourselves some love actually fills our cup, so we have more to give to others.
10 ways that you can show yourself some love:
1. Give yourself a compliment
2. Look yourself in the mirror and say “I love you” or “you are beautiful”
3. Buy yourself a special gift
4. Write yourself a poem or love letter
5. Make a list of things you appreciate about yourself
6. Put your hands on your heart and think of a way you are grateful for yourself
7. Do an activity that your inner child would enjoy, such as a craft, coloring, make some hot cocoa
8. Schedule a massage, or, give yourself a massage
9. Use essential oils for some loving aromatherapy
10. Give yourself a hug
How about we declare February as Self-Love Month and commit to practicing an act of self-love each day? By March, you may notice a boost in self-worth and find it challenging NOT to love yourself a little more. This practice might even lessen the emotional toll of the Winter-blues. Happy self-loving!
Feel free to leave a comment with your favorite act of self-love. Let’s keep expanding this list!
