With the arrival of February, the stores are full of flowers, red and pink hearts and, of course, chocolates! Since 500 A.D., Valentine's Day has been celebrated as a day of love, affection and romance. The name Valentine is derived from a Latin word “valens” meaning worthy, strong or powerful. So what if this month we focus our love and affection on ourselves by celebrating our strength, our power and our worthiness.
Healthy self-love is not selfish or arrogant. It is the pre-requisite for healthy relationships with others. We spend so much energy on finding that “special” relationship, believing that this person will complete us. In fact, no one else can actually complete us or make us whole. Our happiness and fulfillment in life is not dependent on anyone but ourselves.
Have you taken time to develop a loving relationship with yourself? Have you looked into the eyes of your soul and connected with your true self? Other relationships will improve when you improve the one with yourself. Here are a few ways to begin your journey of self-love.
Trust yourself—learn to trust your gut instincts and learn from your miss-steps. In every mis-step, there is a lesson to be learned.
Love yourself--you are perfectly imperfect and know that it is OK.
Respect yourself—know your worth and value, all that makes you unique in the world. Speak your truth.
Offer self-compassion—give yourself the space and grace to be authentically you.
Forgive yourself and others—peace of mind begins with forgiveness of self and others.
See yourself through the eyes of Spirit—you are a perfect creation and here right now for a reason. You are no less spectacular than any of the miracles of nature.
This on Valentine's Day, don't wait for someone else to show their love and affection for you. Treat yourself to the flowers and chocolates and remember...you are strong, powerful and worthy!
“The hand you hold the longest is your own.” ~Libba Bray
Celebrating Love!
Coach Linda