Embracing Self-Love: A Journey of Healing and Empowerment

A few years ago, my best friend and I attended a Sister Circle, an enriching experience filled with meditation, singing, and open conversations about our innermost feelings. Being surrounded by such genuine, supportive women was a transformative experience. Among the attendees was a woman whose spiritual aura immediately resonated with me. It felt as if our souls were already acquainted, and I was drawn to her warmth and authenticity.

She shared a deeply personal story about a time in her life when she lost her confidence and fell out of love with herself and her body. Her journey toward regaining balance and healing was ongoing, but she had discovered a powerful practice that helped her reconnect with her inner self.

Every morning, she would stand naked in front of a mirror and place an invisible crown upon her head. Though the crown was not physically there, the act of doing this was immensely powerful. This ritual symbolised her acknowledgment of her own worth and her right to self-respect and admiration.

After crowning herself, she would dress the Goddess within. She adorned herself with her nicest clothes, perfume, and jewelry, treating her body with the love and reverence it deserved. This daily act of self-worship was her way of showing appreciation for her body and celebrating her own beauty.

This beautiful act of self-love left a lasting impression on me, I often think of it lately. It reminds me that self-love is not just a feeling but a series of intentional actions and rituals that honour our own worth.

Expanding the Practice of Self-Love

Inspired by her story, I began to incorporate my own practices of self-love into my daily routine.

Here are a few additional ways to embrace and nurture self-love:

  • 1. Mindful Affirmations: Start your day with positive affirmations that reinforce your self-worth. Look into the mirror and speak kindly to yourself, affirming your strengths and expressing gratitude for your body and mind.
  • 2. Journaling: Dedicate time each day to journal about your feelings, achievements, and aspirations. Writing down your thoughts can help you process emotions and recognize your progress on your self-love journey.
  • 3. Self-Care Rituals: Create rituals that make you feel cherished and valued. This could include a relaxing bath, a skincare routine, or setting aside time for hobbies that bring you joy.
  • 4. Healthy Boundaries: Learn to say no and establish boundaries that protect your mental and emotional well-being. Respecting your own needs is a crucial aspect of self-love.
  • 5. Gratitude Practice: Focus on gratitude by acknowledging the positive aspects of your life and your own qualities. A gratitude journal can help shift your perspective and cultivate a sense of appreciation for yourself.
  • 6. Physical Activity: Engage in physical activities that make you feel good. Whether it’s yoga, dancing, or a brisk walk, moving your body can boost your mood and enhance your connection to yourself.
  • 7. Seek Support: Surround yourself with a supportive community that encourages and uplifts you. Sharing your journey with others can provide motivation and remind you that you are not alone.

Embracing Imperfection

Remember that self-love is not about achieving perfection. It’s about accepting and embracing your imperfections and understanding that you are worthy of love and respect just as you are. The journey to self-love is ongoing and ever-evolving, but each step you take brings you closer to a deeper connection with yourself.

Incorporate these practices into your daily life and watch as your relationship with yourself transforms. By honouring your own worth and treating yourself with kindness, you can cultivate a profound sense of self-love that radiates from within.

Be kind to the little girl; the inner child

The term “inner child” is often used to describe the connection you have within yourself to your child self and your childhood memories. At times, you might find that certain behaviours or emotions mimic those you experienced as a child, causing you distress as you try to navigate an adult world. The inner child is a symbolic child version of you that can be talked to, healed, supported, and guided to help you make changes when living life and feel compassion for your current and past selves.  

So when you talk about yourself harshly, shaming your beautiful body for its imperfections try to think of a little girl, would you say these things to her? Make her feel less beautiful when she stood in front of a mirror?

Why do it to yourself then?

My year of self-discovery

Lately, I’ve felt a deep, soul-weariness, as though I’ve been carrying an invisible weight. And in many ways, I have. Like so many of us, I’ve mastered the art of saying, “I’m fine,” even when I’m far from it. But now, I’m learning to be honest about how I feel.

I am starting a journey of self-discovery, a year devoted to myself.

Join me on my journey within.

Hope your day is magical and you notice the small precious moments.

Love & healing hugs

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