How to use the 5 Love Languages to increase your self-love.
Valentine's Day. For some, it's a Hallmark holiday filled with pressure-cooker expectations: finding the perfect gift, planning a romantic outing, and expressing those mushy-gushy feelings. But what if we ditched the commercial hype and turned the focus inwards?
This Valentine’s Day let's celebrate the most important love of all: self-love. Because the truth is, the more we love and appreciate ourselves, the more love we have to share with others. Here are some short and sweet, yet powerful ways, to fall in love in with yourself inspired by the 5 Love Languages:
Words of Affirmation:
Love Note to Self: Grab a pen and paper (or your favorite journal) and write down five things you like or love about yourself. Be specific, such as compliments you have received from others, your special talents, unique personality traits, things you’ve done well, and even that you just took the time to think about nice things to say to yourself. And don’t be shy-it’s ok to brag to you!
Valentine's Day Card...to YOU! Pick out a card with a loving and uplifting message, just like you would for a special someone. You can make it fun or make it sweet but what matters is that you give yourself some positivity.
Acts of Service:
Self-Care Indulgence: Doing something nice doesn’t just have to be for others, it can be for you too! Have you been putting off that massage or that weekend getaway? Valentine's Day is the perfect excuse to indulge in some well-deserved self-care.
Tackle the To-Do list: Sometimes, the most loving act is finally getting those nagging tasks done and giving yourself the gift of a clear mind. What can you do for yourself that will give you piece of a mind or make you feel proud of yourself?
Gift Giving:
Spoil Yourself: Whether it’s chocolates, flowers, a new watch, a clothing item, or that book you've been eyeing – go ahead and treat yourself! Just like with chocolates, try not to over indulge as you don't want that self appreciation to become a regret.
Sweet Thoughts: Having difficulty with all this self-love talk? If you need a boost, consider gifting yourself with a guide to self-love such as “You Are A Badass: How to Stop Doubting Your Greatness and Start Living an Awesome Life,” or “The Self Love Workbook: A Life-Changing Guide to Boost Self-Esteem, Recognize Your worth and Find Genuine Happiness.” Go ahead, take a minute, find a book or podcast that allows you to focus on you.
Love Thyself: Give yourself the gift of one of the other five love languages. It’s easy to put off self-love because we’re busy or are focused on others. So why not give yourself the gift of any type of self-love, or a different love language that you don’t normally give to yourself. Loving yourself truly is one of the greatest gifts of all!
Quality Time:
"Me-Date" Magic: Take yourself out for a “me-date” whether it’s a museum visit, a hike in nature, a quiet night at home, ordering in a delicious meal, a sports game and pizza, charcuterie and wine, or just doing exactly what you want for some quality R & R.
Mindful Moments: Spend some quality time connecting with yourself through journaling, meditation, a mindful walk, a quiet few moments, or simply enjoying some cozy “me-time.” Truly connect and be present with yourself with acceptance and without judgment. Allow all your feelings and love to flow.
Seek Support: Being alone with ourselves can be difficult, especially when we are fighting some darker feelings. If you struggle with alone time or loving yourself, consider allowing yourself the quality time to process your feelings with a trusted support person or mental health professional.
Physical Touch:
Body-Love: Connect with your body and give it what it needs. Have you had a doctor’s physical lately? Do you need to drink more water or eat more veggies? Maybe you simply need some warmth or a tender embrace. Ask a loved one for a squeeze or simply wrap your arms around yourself. Even a cozy blanket or a few moments in the sun can feel like a warm hug.
Move Your Body: Get the blood and endorphins flowing with a massage, a yoga class, a physical activity. or a walk in the park. Loving our body can include moving our body and listening to the signals of what it needs.
This Valentine’s Day consider giving yourself the love you deserve because self-love isn’t selfish, it’s essential. So go ahead, apply those sweet candy heart sayings to you, and shower yourself with affection and appreciation.
Your heart will thank you! ❤️
