LOVE…..  it can make us the happiest people alive, and the most miserable. It can be kind, yet incredibly cruel.  Life is a journey filled with ups and downs, and here’s the truth: the most important relationship we’ll ever have is the one with ourselves. 

So, if we really loved ourselves then we wouldn’t settle for less than what we deserve WOULD WE?  But we do.  For those of us who have experienced difficult relationships, and painful times, learning to love ourselves is far from easy. 

The good news is self-love is a skill you can learn… so keep reading and we will tell you how. 

My past became my best teacher, which is why I learned to love it.  The loss, grief, and trauma I’ve experienced, the heartbreak, the low self-esteem, the lost years, and the timid, anxious me who had no idea what to do.  The me who couldn’t stand up for herself or make a decision, and became a very confused doormat.  The me who didn’t know that self-love was an option, will forever be grateful that I know what matters in life. LOVE. 

What does self-love mean to you?  Now there is nothing wrong with bubble baths, candles, and a day at the spa, but true self-care has nothing to do with what’s in your shopping basket!  It’s the nitty-gritty self-love.  The one that involves courage, discomfort, honesty & grief.  It is not for the faint-hearted.  To me, self-love starts with personal responsibility, not blame.  It’s applying the same kind of love you have for those around you to yourself.  So, with Valentine’s Day almost here, what better time to focus on showing ourselves some well-deserved love? 

However, it’s all well and good suggesting you ‘love yourself’ but when that’s heard by those who have experienced countless disappointing relationships, long periods of isolation or loneliness, loss, abusive partners, and crippling anxiety – it can leave them feeling like they’re failing.  It is not always easy to see our own wonderful and unique qualities.  I work hard at challenging my inner critic, and the unkind thoughts that circle around in my head.  We all have imperfections, but you are worthy, you are enough, and you are exactly what the world needs.  

How many of you even think it would be possible to quieten the negative chatter or to find true confidence within yourself?  We are here to show you it is possible.  To cherish your own company, love yourself fiercely, and never put the way you view yourself in the hands of another person. You’re worth more than that.  

Ways to Practice Self-Love

Know Thyself

Look at getting to know yourself like starting a new relationship.  Be curious, and open.  Start a journal. Ask yourself questions, make notes on what is and isn’t working for you, try new things, and learn what truly excites you.  

Find a Routine

Take care of yourself by creating a self-care plan that will improve your well-being.  No one’s plan will be the same.  Do what feels good and be open to making changes as you find out what works for you. Aa daily walk outside, a weekly run, or some volunteering, you choose.  

Self-Compassion

We all make mistakes.  Even the happiest people aren’t perfect.  We all face problems at some point, and when you do, be nice to yourself.  Treating yourself with kindness and understanding helps your self-love grow. I always think of the wise, kind words my Granny offers me, and repeat them to yourself.  Self-compassion is a powerful tool. 

Talk Nicely!

I always think of the wise, kind words my Granny offers me, and repeat them to myself when I need a boost.  When you catch yourself thinking harsh/critical thoughts challenge them.  When you tell yourself “I can’t” – tell yourself “I can”.  Write a list of personal positive sayings that you can relate to.  

Love your Quirks!

There is no one exactly like you on the planet, and there never will be.  Celebrating your strengths and quirks is a powerful way to practice self-love. In a world that tries to get us to conform, stand out.  Instead of comparing yourself to others, recognise and write a list of your unique qualities.  The world needs people like you.d

Our daily workshops will support you through the process of getting to know yourself, discovering all the things you never knew! You will find out what self-love looks like for you. It will take time, but you might just learn to love a whole new side of you.