As February has come into full force, and with it the reds and pinks and teddy bears of Valentine’s Day, I have been reflecting on my associations with the holiday, and how to better love myself first and foremost. With the new year well under way, I’m sure many of you have started new resolutions, possibly about your health and your body. Personally, my resolution is to love myself holistically. For me, that doesn’t just mean how I eat or workout. It also means how I think about my body and talk to it. This Valentine’s Day I wrote a letter to myself, and I encourage you to do so as well. If not, just take a moment to practice gentleness with yourself and think of one thing that you are proud of yourself for.
Skin,
You’re the largest organ in my body! I’m sorry for the unrealistic expectations I’ve placed on you in the past. I’m sorry for cursing you when you’re only reacting to my environment or the things I might put in my body. You protect me from things I can’t see. You allow me to feel warmth and cold. Thank you for being a constant physical example of healing.
Eyes,
You beautiful sea of blue-green-gray. Thank you for daring to see past faults and instead seeing abundance and hope. Thank you for actively seeking those who need care. Thank you for seeing all of the brokenness of your past and choosing kindness instead of hate and bitterness
Legs,
Thank you for taking me to so many destinations where I got to experience people and places I never would have if I didn’t pluck up the courage to do so. Thank you for getting me up in the morning even when I feel like a pile of Jello.
Hands,
Thank you for being so gentle and brave. Thank you for the tears you’ve wiped for myself and others. Thank you for the hands you held and the shoulders you’ve come alongside in solidarity and compassion. Thank you for expressing all of the countless thoughts in my head so I can show others that we’re all struggling together.
Arms,
Thank you for your reach. Thank you for allowing me to pull people close and make room for vulnerability. Thank you for being a vehicle that affirms others
P.S., here are some great books to check out if you want to lean into loving yourself more
You are a Badass by Jen Sincero
101 Essays That Will Change The Way you Think by Brianna Wiest
The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck by Mark Manson
The Four Agreements by Don Miguel Ruiz
Becoming by Michelle Obama
Happy (late) Valentine’s Day. XO,
Christina