Self-love is often something we place at the bottom of our to-do list. But when our daily habits and busy way of life start to affect us negatively, it becomes clear we no longer prioritize ourselves, and the first thing to take a hit is our mental health. So take a moment to pause and consider making some small life changes in the name of self-love and your mental well-being. 

Practicing self-love

Self-love is not selfish. After all, when flying, the flight attendant instructs you to put your oxygen mask on first before helping others in the event of an emergency. This is an important metaphor for those who become preoccupied with taking care of everything and everyone else except themselves.

Here are 5 wellness ways to show yourself some love 

1. Self-love brings stress relief

Do something that makes you happy. Maybe that’s dancing to loud music, reading, an afternoon of hiking in nature or perhaps a calming yoga class. Whatever your bliss may be, it’s essential to carve out daily moments devoted to YOU as enjoying yourself and doing what you love helps to alleviate stress and anxiety. Why not make it a regular hobby so you always have something to cheer you up? 

2. List the things you like about yourself

Whether it’s something about your personality, a part of your body, or unique talent you have —write it down. Grab a stash of post-it notes to jot down your positive words, placing them somewhere visible. Consider attaching this loving list to a daily phone alarm to help you remember and celebrate your favourite features. Creating a daily reminder to revisit these powerful points will help you embrace the positive habit of self-love.

3. Shine a light your successes

If you’re always thinking “I shouldn’t have said that” or “I wish i was better at this”, it’s time to ditch the negative self-talk and start to shine a light on your achievements and successes. We often allow negative experiences to outshine the good. Make it a point to recognize your growth, your resilience, and how awesome you are!

4. Take time to talk

Why struggle alone? Talking about your feelings is a simple act of self-love that can leave you feeling a lot happier. Many of us contend with life’s hurdles that can impact our mental health. Yet only 1 out of 3 people seek and receive the support they need and deserve. Therapy can help you deal and reframe troubling issues and also help prepare you for future stressors. 

5. Use your workplace health benefits 

Self-love is the best reminder to utilize and make your employee health benefits work for you. Studies show 60% of Canadians with mental-health concerns are not using workplace support tools. Often, employees don’t realize they have workplace benefit resources available to help them, whether it be to maintain your mental wellness on a daily as-needed basis or for support during a difficult time. Revisit your coverage plan and prioritize your mental well-being. 

Because there’s nothing wrong with putting yourself first

If you don’t take care of yourself, you can experience burnout, stress, fatigue, anxiety, and sleep disorders, to name a few. Make self-love your priority. Self-love takes practice, and when you give yourself love, you nourish and nurture your mind and body, meeting both your physical and mental well-being needs. 

Want to start making your well-being a priority? 

Download Snapclarity to complete your free comprehensive wellness profile to discover your focus areas and access a toolkit of strategies and resources that work for your personal situation. 

Want your employer to offer Snapclarity as a Mental Health Benefit? 

Related blogs:

Addicted To Being Busy? 5 Ways To Tackle Your Busyness

3 Reasons You Should Take A Mental Health Day When You Need It

How To Add More Relaxation to Each Day