Self-love means different things to different people and may be influenced by gender, culture, religion and our environment, as well as our own life experiences. People often associate it with self-acceptance, self-care, self-acknowledgement, self-appreciation, self-awareness, self-compassion, self-confidence, self-empowerment, self-esteem, self-expression, self-forgiveness, self-honesty, self-trust, self-pleasure, self-respect and self-worth.
However, none of these words by themselves are enough to encompass the depth, intensity and wholeness of SELF-LOVE. It is when these words are combined, connected and vibrate together that they form a unique expression of a person’s love for them self.
One definition of Self-love is:
Self-love often requires putting your own physical, emotional and mental health needs first or in other words, ensuring that you fill up your own glass first. Yet, this aspect of self-love or what is generally considered to be SELF-CARE has been discouraged by society and is thought by some to be “selfish.” But rather than feeling guilty about looking after your own needs, the reality is that no-one can continue to “give” from an empty cup.
Practicing self-care such as having healthy relationships, good nutrition, exercise, intimacy and sleep are important and HOW this happens will vary between individuals. Self-care is vital to ensure that a person lives a balanced lifestyle, reduces stress & overwhelm and gives us time out from busy lifestyles to gain some perspective on our own life.
No one is an island and how we feel, what we think & believe are all influenced in some way, at some time, by the views of society & significant others in our life such as parents, siblings, friends, teachers etc.
When a person chooses to enhance their SELF-LOVE different strategies and solutions may be needed, depending on their individual values, beliefs, emotions and environment. What works for one person, may not work for another person however the first step is to explore what SELF-LOVE means to them.
When we live in the LOVE VIBE, our energy resonates at a high frequency. We often give feel and embrace compassion and forgiveness for other people and whilst it is admirable to have respect and tolerance for others, we are also worthy of respect & tolerance towards ourselves.
We often find it easier to show compassion for other people rather than ourselves. Why is it easier to be offering support and understanding to our friends or family yet we are often quick to not give ourselves the same SELF-COMPASSION? By reducing our own negative or disparaging internal dialogue, being kind and showing ourselves self compassion we are well on our way to living a more fulfilling & happier life of SELF-LOVE.
Leo Buscaglia.
It is when we live our lives in SELF-LOVE, that we empower ourselves, inspire and nourish our Soul.
It is when we are in this VIBE of LOVE that we are lifted to a higher state of heart centered consciousness. This expansion in turn attracts more love, joy and wholeness back to us, bringing magic into our life and gives us the gift of thriving.
