Self Love is... Selfish?, Optional?, Vital!
Heal Your Mind, Free Your Soul, Relax Your Body
"Talk to yourself like you would to someone you love." – Brené Brown
Self-love is a phrase that’s thrown around a lot, but what does it mean in everyday life? And why does it matter so much that we get it right?
I used to believe that loving myself was selfish.
I was raised to think that putting myself first was wrong, that I was supposed to sacrifice my own needs for others.
But what I’ve learned is that the opposite is true! Real love for others begins with love for ourselves.
If our cup is empty, how can we give to others?
If we don’t value ourselves, how can we expect others to?
This week, I’ve been exploring how self-love is not just about feeling good, it’s about getting it right with ourselves first so that we can show up fully in our relationships and in life.
Mind: Healing Thoughts
A Quote:
You yourself, as much as anybody in the entire universe, deserve your love and affection." – Buddha
This quote is one I wish I’d heard when I was younger.
We are so quick to give love to others, but how often do we turn that same kindness toward ourselves?
What I’m Learning:
I've been reflecting on how society doesn’t really encourage self-love.
We are taught to put others first, to seek approval, to prove our worth.
But real self-love is quiet. It’s not about seeking validation, it’s about knowing our own worth without needing external confirmation.
Psychologists have found that self-compassion leads to greater inner strength, healthier relationships, and even physical well-being.
When we treat ourselves with the same kindness we’d offer a close friend, we actually lower stress levels and boost our overall happiness.
Body: Nourishment for Renewal
A Nourishing Meal:
A simple but powerful way to show love to yourself is through the food you eat.
This week, I’ve been making warm, nourishing soups (I’m in Paris and it’s cold!), simple, wholesome meals made with love.
A favourite has been roasted tomato and red pepper soup, full of antioxidants and flavour, reminding me that taking care of my body is an act of self-love.
A Simple Practice:
This week, I’ve been adding small moments of self-care into my day, lighting candles and putting on fairy lights in the evening, putting on my favourite music while cooking or tidying the apartment, and consciously telling myself kind words in the mirror. These little things make a big difference.
Soul: Connection and Reflection
Books to Inspire:
The Gifts of Imperfection by Brené Brown – A must-read for anyone who struggles with self-worth, showing how embracing who we truly are leads to deeper connection and joy.
The Synergy Game by Georgia Clare
All through my book I talk about how I learned to practice self love and how healing it has been for me and continues to be.
A Meditation:
Loving ourselves doesn’t mean we think we’re perfect, it means we accept ourselves as we are, while also realising that there is a need for constant growth.
This week's Self-Love Meditation is all about embracing yourself with kindness and allowing self-love to guide your life.
Music That Moves Me:
Unwritten by Natasha Bedingfield is the perfect anthem for self-love and new beginnings.
Its beautiful lyrics and bright, hopeful tune, remind us that we are the authors of our own story. No matter what has happened in the past, we have the power to start fresh, embrace who we are, and move forward with confidence.
It’s a beautiful reminder that our journey is still unfolding, and the best chapters are yet to come.
I’ve learned that self-love isn’t about being self-absorbed or ignoring others. It’s about recognising that when we take care of ourselves, we show up better for the people around us.
We have more patience, more kindness, and more capacity for love. It makes us better parents, lovers, partners, friends, siblings.
What’s something loving you are going to do for yourself this week? Let me know, I’d love to hear how self-love shows up in your life.
See you next week!
The Synergy Game is available on all book-selling websites!
Embracing the concept that self-love can be quiet. Soft whispers to ourselves as a reminder that we're worthy can carry the power of a thousand yells. Thank you for sharing!
So true, loved discovering a Unwritten, added to my dance list.