How to Practice Self Love

"Self care is never a selfish act – it is simply good stewardship of the only gift I have, the gift I was put on earth to offer to others.”

-Parker J. Palmer

With just a few days until Valentine’s Day, we’re constantly being reminded of the importance of taking care of our romantic relationships. But there’s another relationship that is just as important (if not more so): the one we have with ourselves. It was that sentiment that led author Christine Arylo to found the first Self-Love Day more than 10 years ago. Since then, the celebration held each year on February 13 has only gained momentum, with thousands of individuals planning to use the day to make self-care and self-love a priority.

Which only leads to the question: how do you practice self-love?

Merriam Webster defines self-love as “appreciation for your own worth or virtue,” a definition that speaks to the importance of honoring yourself – and not just once per year. The answer to this question is hugely personal and requires taking time to think through those rituals, practices and actions that re-inspire, re-energize and re-awaken you. Once you’ve built a list, find ways to make them a regular part of your life.

To give you a dose of inspiration, we asked a number of beauty bloggers and influencers what they do to practice self love.

“I make wellness a priority each day by working out first thing in the morning, eating healthy 90% of the time and supplementing with vitamins. Throughout the day I take breaks as needed, during which I take 10 deep breaths. Doing this really helps me and takes no time at all.

Finally, whenever I’m feeling down I just embrace the emotion. If I haven’t shaken the mood after a few days I do something nice for myself, like get my nails done.”

-Aimara Mayorca, Ways of Style

“I show self-love by taking time for myself by unplugging from social media, reading a book and throwing on a sheet mask. I set aside time for this ritual at least twice each week.

-Priyanka Patel, Glamour and Giggles

“A few of my favorite self-love practices are:

*Leaving my phone at home when I walk my dogs. The downtime from my device combined with being outdoors grounds me.

*Going to the gym. I’m not someone who can workout at home so the gym helps me to focus on my workout while motivating me.

*Deep conditioning my hair and applying a face mask weekly. This forces me to pause and put my feet up for a few minutes. I love flipping through fashion magazines while I let the products do their magic.”

-Tammy Gibson, A Mom In Red High Heels

“My self-love includes good skin care, tons of water, fresh air and speaking to people who are uplifting and positive.”

-Blair Dalar Khodagholian, Note Blair

We want to hear what you do to practice self-love. Tell us in the comments section or on our Facebook or Instagram pages.