Do you critique yourself or put yourself down over your seeming “failure” to fit into your swimwear or afford that lavish holiday? Are you constantly comparing yourself to others by scrolling for hours on Instagram? Do you feel like you’re aren’t good looking, intelligent or successful enough? Sadly, you’re not alone. Over 85% of people struggle with low self-esteem and studies suggest it’s not surprising. We live in a time where we’re constantly pushed to do more, be fitter, happier, more successful — and all that pressure takes a toll.
Although low self-esteem is common, it’s effects can be serious. Low self-esteem can lead to the development of anxiety conditions, depression, drug use and alcoholism. But how do we deal with crippling insecurities or overcome the burden of damaging self-doubt? In a word, try some self-love!
What Is Self-Love and Why Should You Practice it?
All too many of us are put off of the self-love wagon by images of hippies and self-help books. But self-love benefits your mental health and overall well-being. Some self-love can benefit you in several ways, improving productivity, reconnecting you with yourself and helping you to get the most out of your life.
Self-love is the tonic to all those negative feelings and insecurities that ruin your enjoyment of life. It’s scientifically proven to ease the effects of depression, anxiety and insecurity! Among the many positive benefits, self-compassion can lead to:
- Increased productivity
- Decreased stress
- Improved strength
Far from hippy-dippy nonsense, self-love is an essential mental exercise that nurtures and heals. So break the cycle of negativity today and embrace yourself this summer!
How to Practice Self-Love
There are hundreds of ways to show yourself some self-lovin’. Here are some of our favourites.
Surround Yourself with Loved Ones
Self-love doesn’t have to be all about lonely introspection. It also means connecting with those people who are important to us. Friends and family are integral to our happiness, but somehow amongst the daily grind and life’s innumerable tasks, these important relationships can take a backseat.
So schedule some time for those you love. Set a date, clear your plans and stick to it. Surround yourself with people who make you feel good and help you to be the best you can. Dance, play, chat and have fun — laughter is the best medicine, after all.
Embrace Your Body with a Sensual Massage
Image: Dainis Graveris, Biodenix
Your sensuality is at the very core of who you are. It’s that special, magic ingredient that makes us feel sexy, empowered and desirable. It’s when we lose touch with our innate sensuality that we’re more likely to fall down the rabbit hole of body shaming, insecurity and self-doubt.
So don’t be afraid to indulge your eroticism with a sensual massage. Designed to reawaken your sexuality and improve your relationship to your body and inner power, it’s the ultimate exercise in self-love and self-confidence. Similarly to a traditional massage, sensual massage uses varying strokes, rhythm and pressure to help your body and mind relax while reigniting your sexual energies. It’s the perfect tonic for anyone feeling out of touch with their bodies and uninspired by their love life.
Take Time out In Nature
Technology has changed our lives. Today, a whole world of information is available at the click of a button. There are tons of benefits to this new, interconnected world. But being constantly bombarded with photos of people who are seemingly happier, skinnier and prettier than we are takes its toll.
So give yourself a break and turn the technology off. Put the phone away, shut down the laptop, and take some digitally free time just for yourself. Rather than surrounding yourself with technology, spend some time reconnecting with nature. Studies found that being immersed in nature has innumerable benefits — for our happiness and overall well-being. From the chemicals in the soil to the effect of the colour green on our eyes, nature has a unique power to restore and rejuvenate.
Author bio: Rose Colette Aston is a tantric massage expert and head blogger for London Tantric a prestigious, personable and professional Tantric massage agency in London.
Photo by Min An
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