6 Powerful Ways to Practise Self Love
Mental health has always been a serious issue. Since the outbreak of Covid- 19 our mental health crisis is at an all time high! Globally there are 7,000,000 people that attempt suicide each year. With 800,000 precious souls succeeding, that’s 1 person every 40 seconds!
There are millions of people dealing with mental health related issues on the daily. We would be naive to think that this blog will help solve the crisis. We as a society have a lot of work to do! However... if you find yourself feeling overwhelmed, stressed, anxious, depressed or feeling vulnerable with substances... here are 6 powerful ways to practise self love and keep you going.
Why is self love so important? Because... it is the act of putting your physical, emotional and mental well-being first. Self love motivates you to make healthier life choices. And by you recognizing healthier choices, you will be aware when someone isn't loving you right. YOU set the bar.
1. Stop comparing yourself
Comparison is the killer of all things beautiful. Stop comparing your image, experiences and material possessions. We all have our own timeline, so comparing your situation is like comparing pineapples to roses. Stop comparing your “failures” to someone else’s “victories”. You are the author of your own story... grow and learn at your own pace. Be patient with yourself and love yourself enough to know that comparison is a hate crime!
2. Surround yourself with good people
Be picky with who you spend your time with! Your time is precious. Realize that it is okay to outgrow people and to never feel bad about it. It is also completely normal to take breaks from people. Be with people who want to see you succeed. Be with people who actually want you there, not just when it’s convenient for them. Also… “No” is a complete sentence. You don’t need to explain yourself or give reasoning as to why you do not want to be social that day.
3. Find a passion/ hobby
Find something that gets your blood pumping. Find what you love and bonus points if you can turn it into profit and make a living off of it! Your passion is your happy place. It allows you to grow and learn new things about yourself. Never be afraid to evolve. You don’t develop by staying in your comfort zone.
4. Slow it down and breathe
By this I don’t mean just breathe. Although that’s not a bad idea, meditation is extremely beneficial. What I really mean is slow it down and take a minute to take it all in. Experience life in the moment and allow yourself to feel emotions. Stop living in the hustle and bustle of the modern world. If you need to... have a couple lazy days! Give yourself time to just f*cking chill! :)
5. Forgiveness
I know, I know. This is a hard one. It took me awhile to learn the benefits of forgiveness. You need to practise forgiving others AND yourself. Holding grudges feeds hate and anger. Living with those emotions is exhausting! Remember that forgiving is not forgetting and it’s definitely not excusing bad behavior. It’s about finding inner peace and moving forward.
6. Spoil yourself
OF COURSE!!! Remember… you are your biggest gift to yourself. You set the bar for how others treat you. Sometimes you need a little pick me up. So here are some fun ways to spoil yourself.
- Sleep in
- Bing watch your favourite Netflix series
- Buy something new for your wardrobe
- Schedule a spa day
- Take a day trip
- Book a cute Airbnb in the middle of no where
- Cute dinner date for one
- Staycation
- Bubble bath & wine (my personal favourite)
Remember to take care of yourself! I know it’s hard to believe, but you should come first! How the hell are you going to look after others if you’re suffering. Everyone will be best when you are at yours! So take a break for once and practise these 6 powerful self love ideas.
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If you or anyone you know is suffering from mental health and in any danger of hurting themselves, please reach out to a professional!
Canada Suicide Prevention Service at 1-833-456-4566 (24/7).
For residents of Québec, call 1 866 APPELLE (1.866.277.3553).
United States National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (1-800-273-8255)
Starting on July 16, 2022 everyone across the USA will be able to dial 988 and be immediately connected with Lifeline.