When was the last time you expressed gratitude and admiration for simply being who you are? Or the last time you reminded yourself that your are your top priority? You come first.
One must love themselves wholly and fully before they can truly give to or receive love from others. As February 14th approaches, bring your awareness to yourself before showering others with affection and gifts or doubting yourself for not sharing your place in the world yet with another. I offer an invitation to turn your love inward today, tomorrow, all the days. It may seem awkward or uncomfortable at first, but it is essential to your well-being.
We happen to express our love to others far more than we express it to ourselves, what a travesty.
You are one of a kind.
So for just a moment -
Find a comfortable seated position or lie down. Notice where your body connects with the Earth. Feel the energy of life spread up through those points of contact, rooting you firmly and purposefully into the ground. Breathe cleansing and full breaths deeply into your chest and your heart, the energy center of self development and unconditional love. Scan the body and send fresh oxygen and rejuvenating energy throughout and to any points of tension you meet. Relax the face, the space between your eyebrows, the jaw, remove the tongue from the roof of your mouth. Place one hand over your heart and one over your belly. Notice the rise and fall of your body. Feel your chest soften and expand. You are here. You are alive. Repeat to yourself (internally or aloud), "I am abundantly loved. I allow myself to give and receive love freely. I am nourished by the power of love. I love you just as you are." Repeat as many times as is necessary until your heart feels full and replenished with self-respect and appreciation. As you begin to find movement, acknowledge the strength and gratitude that these simple words carry and feel them resonate through your body. Carry them with you through the remainder of the day, and allow the lightness of receiving your own love radiate outwards.
Remember to shower yourself with nourishment, renewal, and healing regularly so your love translates fully and authentically to others when you choose to share it. You, above all else, deserve your own love.
Find contentment and joy in who you are.
You have value.
You hold an important place in this world.
You are loved.
'lokah samastah sukhino bhavantu'
May all beings everywhere be happy and free, and may the thoughts, words, and actions of my own life contribute in some way to that freedom and happiness for all.
