"Will You Be My Valentine?" Self-Care and Self-Love

[tyme]

Once again, we have arrived at February 14th - or more commonly known, Valentine's Day.

Whilst we recognise this is a special time for many loved ones, we also want to create a space for forums members who would like gather together for a virtual group 'date'?

Remember, you are NOT alone. Self-love and self-care are key to maintaining, promoting and supporting one's mental health.

Let's talk all things love!

1) What does 'self-love' mean to you?

2) What can you do to show self-love?

3) Why is 'self-love' important?

[tyme]

Note About Self-Love on Valentine's Day (by Kelsy Pacceti):

When it comes to love, it’s easy to only focus on our current relationship status, especially today. However, it’s important to remember that all forms of love in our life (platonic love, familial love, and of course, self-love) have a place on Valentine’s Day. That’s why I want to encourage you to put yourself first and carve out time for self-care, starting today!

The quote “You spend most of your life inside your head. Make it a nice place to be,” comes to mind when thinking about the importance of prioritizing our relationship with ourselves. Having alone time where you focus on your well-being and happiness can be life-changing. If you’re not quite sure where to start, or just want some new ideas, here are my tips on practicing self-love:

Write it down: The best thing you can do to carve out self-care or alone time is to put it in your calendar! Self-love can be really hard for some people. But the good news is, you don’t have to always love yourself to treat yourself with kindness. Start with self-like and keep carving out time for yourself. Stick to it and make it a habit. It takes time and work. Focus on growing at your own pace and celebrating the small wins, and you’ll see results.

Step into nature: When was the last time you took a deep breath outside? Take the time to go on a walk, whether it be for ten minutes or an hour. Find a nature trail, walk on campus, or in your neighborhood – wherever you feel most at peace. Listen to the sounds around you, or put your favorite album on shuffle and enjoy being with yourself! 

Get artistic: I think doing crafts is one of the most relaxing forms of self-care. You can express your feelings, focus on a simple task without the worries of daily life, and end up with something beautiful to display. Find a simple colouring page, paint, or if you’re up for it, maybe even a complex craft on Pinterest!

Engage your mind: Unplug from technology and take some time reading a new book, doing a puzzle, or practicing a new skill. These simple tasks can take you out of your day-to-day worries and stress, and instead give you something new and different to focus on.

Stop “should-ing” on yourself: Finally, watch your self-talk! Is what you’re thinking something you would say to a friend? It can be easy to tell ourselves we should be doing something else when we are spending time recharging. Is what you’re doing benefitting you mentally, emotionally, or physically? If the answer’s yes, keep doing it! If not, change should to could and make your needs the priority.

The world is a better place because you’re in it – please show up for yourself every single day because you are so worth loving. Have a very happy Valentine’s Day (and don’t forget to purchase your clearance chocolates tomorrow)!

[Snuggles]

Hi @tyme 

This one has alluded me for most of my life.

What does 'self-love' mean to you?

Self-love to me is not always blaming myself for everything.  For forgiving myself for not being perfect.

What can you do to show self-love?

By leaving my house unafraid of people.  This has been a huge step for me.

Why is 'self-love' important?

It's important to me as it makes me feel I have a right to be alive.  I have a right to be myself without feeling shame.

Take care

Snuggles 😊

[tyme]

Thank you for sharing @Snuggles . Such valuable understanding. 

Here are my responses:

What does 'self-love' mean to you?

To me self-love is to show yourself compassion. To allow yourself to make mistakes and know it's okay.

What can you do to show self-love?

For me, showing self-love is about scheduling time in to look after myself. To know it's okay to take some time out and not feel guilty about it.

Why is 'self-love' important?

I feel that self-love is important because it allows us to balance how much we help others. Unless I can show myself self-love, I feel it is close to impossible to show others love. You cannot pour from an empty cup.

[Glisten]

@tyme I like that World Health Organisation acknowledges singles and self care on Valentines Day

My Bestie of 38 years always sends me a message 

And Dougie 💞

 

[tyme]

Thanks @Glisten ! Love it!

[Shaz51]

Hello @Snuggles , @tyme , @Glisten 

Let's talk all things love!

1) What does 'self-love' mean to you?

for me self-love means to me is to take time for myself to recharge and to try not to feel guilty about taking time out 

2) What can you do to show self-love?

For me to make sure I take some time for me each day 

3) Why is 'self-love' important?

I feel self-love is very important as we need to recharge and to care for ourselves so we can care for others 

[tyme]

Beautiful @Shaz51 , absolutely beautiful.

Yes, love is in the air! Love for self 🙂 Why not?

[Glisten]

@Shaz51 your self care post is so nice. It almost made me cry happy tears 🥲