Put self-love above all else
Valentine’s Day — a day synonymous with love and romance. The day is filled with roses, chocolates in heart-shaped boxes, fluffy teddy bears and endless rom-com marathons.
But while this holiday is characterized mostly by couples, it’s an opportune time to indulge in some self-love.
Every year there are articles about how single people can celebrate V-Day. They usually entail ice cream, a bunch of chocolate and alcohol (for those of age). But self-love is not just for single people — everyone needs to practice it.
It can be hard to love ourselves because we all struggle with our self image. Here are some tips to practice today, and every day, so that we can take care of ourselves.
Think happy thoughts. This may seem too menial to make a difference, but beginning the day with positive thoughts helps to create a more accepting attitude. Of course, there will be bad days, but finding the smallest positivities can have a huge impact on our mindsets.
Don’t bottle emotions. It’s easier to supress emotions sometimes and not think about what may be bothering us, but it isn’t healthy in the long run. When stress is overwhelming and your chest feels like bursting, just let it out. Scream into a pillow or have a good cry if need be. Relieve the mind and body of the weight of anxieties.
Find activities that ease the mind and soothe the soul. Whether it’s journaling or meditating, there are hundreds of hobbies that can take our minds off our troubles. There are many groups on campus to join, or, for those who prefer a more individual journey, explore options on the internet that adapt to every need.
Believe in yourself. Yes, it’s corny, but we all have the potential to do great things in life. Sometimes we forget that and feel worthless, but those intrusive thoughts do not mean that we are not capable of greatness.
Take a minute to absorb the environment that surrounds us. Nothing is too urgent that won’t allow a minute or two of peace to just clear the mind and breathe.
Every one needs love but perhaps the most important love we need is that of ourselves.