Do you love yourself?

The issue of self love is a common topic that floats amongst social media platforms today and for a good reason. We live in a culture of constant put downs. Young women aspire to look like girls who are more often than not photoshopped, a look that is unachievable when the the girl in the photograph doesn’t truly look like that either.

Body image issues and a lack of self love are mainly suffered by young women, however, men and women of all ages can face these problems. Even models face these problems, as well as that YouTuber you admire, who doesn’t always love herself. Every single one of us have days when we do not feel as if we are worth it, when we feel that we do not meet the standards set by society.

So, what is self love and why does it matter?

Self love is choosing and caring for ourselves; it’s not bad to put yourself before others, once in a while. Self love is necessary because it defines you and brings you happiness. Being a happy person will attract positive energy and company. Not only does self love help your social health, but it helps your physical health as well! Being happy with yourself can boost your immune system and prevent illness and finally, because you deserve it. You deserve to love yourself because you are you! You are the only you, and if that’s not a reason to love yourself then I don’t know what is.

How can you practice self love?

In a world where we have been raised to put others first, it feels selfish to love yourself. Giving time for yourself can make you feel guilty, making self love a struggle to maintain. Fortunately, we live in an era where self love is being revolutionised and we can begin to practice it guilt free. Below are some simple ideas to begin your journey to complete self love, thereby creating a better lifestyle.

• Begin each day with a positive outlook, avoid negative thinking.
• Drink water and eat food that makes you feel good, this means that oil and grease are not ideal.
• Wear clothes that make you feel good – find your style, wear things you wouldn’t usually wear and if it makes you feel good, then who cares what others say!
• Exercise releases endorphins to boost your happiness which will put you in a good mood. Exercise will also help you to sleep better.
• Don’t believe everything that you think, dark thoughts are not always true.
• Surround yourself with beautiful people who encourage you. Don’t waste your time on fake friends!
• Stop comparing yourself to others, like the girl who sits across from you in class, or the model you have on your lock screen.
• Find what makes you happy and avoid what doesn’t. Happiness is brought to people by different things, so think about what makes you happy and focus on those things.

Remember that you are beautiful, mind, heart and soul.