Remember when Beyonce said me, myself, is all I got in the end? Well, I'm not saying that you need to be alone for the rest of your life, but it is essential to learn how you like to be loved. The best love that you can receive is from yourself. Self love is when you accept yourself fully, treat yourself with kindness, and nurture your growth and well being (Martin, Dr.Sharon). Once you master the art of caring for YOU and learn how to fill your cup with endless love, you will feel satisfied and valued. Show yourself the love you deserve because how you care for your body and mind is how you can teach others how to support you (Rao & Kemper, 2016).
Pamper Yourself
Doing things for yourself can be as simple as trying a new recipe or watching a movie. Taking the time to prepare your bath by putting your intentions into the water is therapeutic and satisfying. The warm water, bubbles, flowers, and an excellent read are the epitome of luxury. You deserve to rest and take a break to show up as your BEST Self.
Express Gratitude
One way to express gratitude to yourself is to take time each day to recognize and appreciate your accomplishments. Gratitude is the appreciation of what is valuable and meaningful to oneself; it is a general state of thankfulness and appreciation (Sansone and Sansone). You can write down three things you did that day that you are proud of or even come up with a list of things you are proud of yourself for achieving over the last few weeks. You can also recognize your positive qualities and appreciate your strengths and weaknesses. Taking a few moments to reflect on your successes can be a powerful way to express gratitude, boost your mood, and prepare your mind for the day (Watkins et al., 1970).
Spend Time with Loved Ones
Creating memories with the people that make you the happiest is a form of self-care! You deserve to be showered with love from others. It helps us deepen our relationships, provide emotional support, and boost our overall well-being. What is something you enjoy doing with your friends and family?
Always remember that everyone's self-care looks different. We all require love in different ways. How I spend time with myself differs from my best friend, lover, or coworker. Finding ways to feel love and appreciation for yourself is essential! You are the greatest project you will ever work on. Take your time and treat yourself with the care you will notice how much peace and clarity it brings to your life.
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Sources:
Gratitude source - Watkins, Philip Charles, R. A. Emmons, and M. E. McCullough. "Gratitude and subjective well-being." (2004): 167-92.
"Online Training in Specific Meditation Practices Improves Gratitude, Well-Being, Self-Compassion, and Confidence in Providing Compassionate Care Among Health Professionals." *Journal of Evidence-Based Integrative Medicine*, 31 Jan. 2016, journals.sagepub.com/doi/full/10.1177/2156587216642102.
Sansone RA, Sansone LA. Gratitude and well being: the benefits of appreciation. Psychiatry (Edgmont). 2010 Nov;7(11):18-22. PMID: 21191529; PMCID: PMC3010965.
Martin, Dr. Sharon. “Setting Boundaries with Yourself: An Essential Form of Self-Care.” Live Well with Sharon Martin, 15 Sept. 2021, https://www.livewellwithsharonmartin.com/setting-boundaries-with-yourself/.
DISCLAIMER: THIS POST DOES NOT CONSTITUTE AS MEDICAL ADVICE. THIS POST IS NOT MEANT TO TREAT, CURE, PREVENT, OR DIAGNOSE CONDITIONS OR DISEASES; AND IS MEANT FOR EDUCATIONAL PURPOSES. AS ALWAYS, PLEASE CONSULT YOUR DOCTOR BEFORE TRYING ANY NEW TREATMENTS OR SUPPLEMENTS.