In a world that often emphasizes external validation, taking a moment to appreciate and embrace yourself is important.
At this time of the year, many people juggle multiple relationships, often with family, friends, romantic partners and co-workers, and often forget to nurture their relationship with themselves.
Practicing self-love means acknowledging your strengths as well as your imperfections and loving yourself regardless. To be human is to be flawed, and that’s a beautiful thing. Embrace it.
Practicing self-care is an often overlooked action, but it is important to incorporate it into your weekly regimen.
According to the Jed Foundation taking care of your physical, mental, emotional and spiritual health will help you meet the challenges of college, as well as help manage stress, uncertainty and adversity reducing the risk of anxiety or depression.
Physical self-care includes taking care of your physical health by getting good sleep, incorporating healthy eating habits, keeping up on wellness visits and exercising in any form that feels good to you.
Mental self-care includes making healthy social media habits, practicing mindfulness and most importantly asking for help when you need it.
Emotional self-care includes practicing emotional awareness, learning to manage your emotions and doing things that make you happy.
Spiritual self-care can include going to church or praying but does not have to be religion-related. You can also practice spiritual self-care through meditating or doing activities when you feel fully present and connected to yourself.
It is important to understand that you do not have to have a perfect self-care routine. Starting by focusing on one area is a great way to start incorporating self-care in your everyday life.
There are many ways to incorporate self-care into your daily routine. Journaling before bedtime, practicing breathing, meditating in the mornings and even drinking enough water throughout the day are all important forms of self-care.
When you prioritize self-love, you can replenish your energy and foster a positive relationship with yourself that radiates outwards.
Taking time out of your day to incorporate acts of self-love and learning to be okay with moments of solitude can be daunting. As time progresses, you will get better at practicing forms of self-love, and it will soon become second nature.
It is important to take time out of your fast-paced life, give yourself grace and practice positive affirmations. This Valentine's Day, shower yourself with compassion, acknowledge your strengths and embrace your imperfections.
SHOOT LEADS Samantha Harden, Madeline Kritzell / MODELS Paige McBane, Abby Nocera, Haylie DiCarlo, Summer Neds, Mercedes Lewandowski, Sophie Wu / PHOTOGRAPHY Samantha Harden, Paige Kadar, Sandra Fu
