A Guide to Self-Love for Women

Look yourself in the mirror and say "I love and accept myself". If this is hard or you don't believe it yet, it is okay be gentle with yourself. Start with "it's hard to love and accept myself but I accept how I feel". Write down how you feel the 1st day. Practice an act of self-love daily for 30 consecutive days. Repeat "I love and accept myself" in the mirror on the 30th day and see if there is a change in how you feel. If so, what shifted? If not, what can you do to shift this?

Take a bubble bath, play music, light candles, and enjoy a glass of your favorite drink, preferably non-alcoholic.

Write a letter to your inner child. What does she need? Does she need love, nurturance, guidance, and to be told that she is enough? Maybe you didn't get this growing up, but the woman you are today can now provide it. Say kind and loving things to your inner child like "I love you unconditionally" or "I accept you just as you are". Be sure to allow at least 30 minutes for this exercise and have tissues handy as this exercise can be emotional.

Nurture your inner child, let yourself play and have fun. Wrap yourself in a soft blanket; eat your favorite snack from when you were a child. These are just some of the ways you take care of your inner child.

Make a self-care list that contains items you can do when you are having a low moments or a difficult day. They will happen being prepared can make all the difference. Be sure to include things that bring you joy or just make you smile.

Listen for a moment to what the negative voice in your head is saying. It has really just been trying to protect you all this time. Normally it is developed in childhood to avoid pain and keep you safe. Remember that it is a fear-based response. Respond in a compassionate way by acknowledging it and thanking it for keeping you safe all this time. Then reassure it that you have the situation under control. These are the moments you need to nurture yourself.

Take a full day for rest & relaxation. Pamper yourself because you are worth it. If you are not able to take a full day dedicate at least an hour to rest & relaxation.

Do acts of kindness for yourself & others. You will inspire others to do the same. Leave every person you encounter a little brighter.

What have you always wanted to do? What are your dreams? Write out a plan and take the first step.

Go outside and enjoy nature. Play, run, jump rope, swing, and do anything that your heart desires. Don't worry about what others think of you. They will probably think you lost your mind. It's okay, do this for you and only you.