How to Establish a Daily Self-Love Ritual
In my recent blog, Self-Love for Beginners, I discussed what self-love is and how to practice it. One of my fave ways to practice self-love is the first suggestion in the blog: start a daily self-love ritual.
I perform this ritual every day to keep on track and ensure I continue to master the art of self-love and self-care. I’ve made it a cherished daily habit and I’m going to share it with you!
In the morning, I do three things upon waking.
The first is to look in the mirror without fear, shame or judgement and say, I love you. I make sure I really soak these three important words in. Now, I’m not going to lie. You’ll likely interrupt yourself with objections or negative thoughts when you first start this practice. When you do, repeat the words again with care and conviction and remind yourself that the negative thoughts are just a story and you have the power to create a better one.
Next, grab a pen and paper (or a journal if you have one) and pay yourself a compliment. For example, I make a mean green smoothie, I rocked that work presentation yesterday or I’m a good listener. Write it down.
Lastly, write down three things you love about yourself. For example, I love that I am a supportive friend, I love my freckles (this one was a tough one for me), or I love my sense of humor.
Pretty simple right? And it doesn’t take long at all. Just a few minutes so no excuses.
The evening ritual is just as easy and you should aim to do it right before bed so you sleep on all the goodness you tell yourself.
First, you’ll grab that pretty little journal of yours I suggested you buy in the last video and list an accomplishment that you are proud of for the day. This can be large or small. For example, I donated some items I no longer use to those in need or I caught up with a friend over FaceTime.
Next, you’re going to take 30 minutes to do something that nourishes your soul like take a bath, read a book, meditate, do some bedtime yoga, go for a walk, have a solo dance party to wear yourself out, phone a friend, you get the picture. The idea is to spend a little extra time pampering yourself. Note what you did and how it made you feel in your journal.
Lastly, before you hit the sack, say out loud with love, compassion and acceptance that, I love you. Don’t believe it? Say it until you do.
Now, imagine sleeping on these positive vibes you’ve just sent yourself?
Self-love is an art that can be practiced and mastered over time with this daily ritual. I've created a template for you which you can download for FREE here. Grab it today to kickstart your self-love journey with this easy morning and evening practice.