The season of love doesn’t have to mean love only for others.
February tells us we should show our love outward—through grand gestures, romantic candlelit dinners, and sweet handwritten cards. We are encouraged to celebrate romance loudly, beautifully, and publicly across every social media platform we can find.
But did you know that February 13th is Self-Love Day?
Why does it have to be only one day? That is so crazy!
How do you love yourself when no one is there to see it or cheer you on?
Self-love has never been about aesthetics or perfection. It’s about choosing yourself–completely and unapologetically. Let’s be honest it is not always easy; I know this from personal experience. Sometimes it’s deeply uncomfortable. It asks you to stop abandoning yourself and start honoring what you truly want and need.
We are taught from a young age how to take care of others, but we are rarely taught how to care for ourselves. I say to you, my Insightful Spark friends—self-love is not a one time act. It is a practice—one you return to again and again.
If you are not sure where to start, here are a few simple ways to begin nurturing your mind, body, and spirit today—and continue for a lifetime:
- Speak to yourself with the same kindness you give others.
- Let yourself rest without earning it.
- Enjoy nature: take the walk, sit in stillness.
- Cook your favorite meal. Take yourself to that restaurant you have been dying to try.
- Start a journal.
- Write a love letter to yourself.
- Take a warm bubble bath. If you want, add the rose petals and light the candles.
- Date yourself: go to the movie, coffee shop, that art exhibit you really want to check out.
Self-love doesn’t need a holiday, an audience, or permission. It lives in the quiet moments where you choose yourself anyway. This season, let love begin with you—and let that be enough.
Here’s to gentle growth,
Denni