What Does Self-Love Mean, and How Can We Practice It?
Unpacking exactly what self-love means is not a simple task as it can mean different things to different people, but according to the Brain and Behavior Research Foundation, ‘Self-love is a state of appreciation for oneself that grows from actions that support our physical, psychological and spiritual growth. It means, taking care of your own needs and having a high regard for your own well-being and happiness’. While this makes perfect sense on paper, it can sometimes be challenging to practice this in everyday life, which is why it’s important to consciously build elements of self-love into daily situations, so they become a habit.
These elements of self-love can range from adopting a more positive viewpoint and outlook on the world, as well as building self-confidence and learning to avoid the spiral of self-hatred. Other practical elements, such as developing a healthy exercise routine, practicing mindful eating, and generally taking better care of yourself and your health both physically and mentally all contribute towards a positive attitude to life, which is at the heart of self-love.