Self-Love

by Elaine Bellenoit

DURING FEBRUARY, THE MONTH OF LOVE, DON'T FORGET YOURSELF! Our culture has taught us that to be a good person, we must always put others first. It may sound cliché, but the truth is, we cannot give our best if we don't take care of our needs first. There is a concept in Integrated Energy Therapy® (IET®) work that encourages "spiritual selfishness." An overflowing cup allows us to give freely, without resentment, and without totally depleting ourselves. You're deserving of love too!

Self-Love Ideas

• Listen to your favorite song, either alone (if you can sneak away) or with people you love. Dance or sing if inspired!

• Dedicate a few hours to YOU by doing something you really love.

• Spend a little time in nature, even if it's 5 minutes - a walk around the block. Notice everything around you.

• Do a Self/Life Assessment - This can help you reckon with the past and release what doesn't serve you, check in with where you are in the present, and imagine and dream of the future you want.

Answer the following questions for yourself:

• What do you need to reckon with from your past? Do you need to let go of something? Forgive yourself for something? Forgive someone else? (This doesn't necessarily mean absolving the other person or forgetting, but allowing yourself to move on).

• Where you are in life right now? What have you accomplished this year? (This is not an all-or-nothing exercise - list small steps you've accomplished towards your goals). Do you need to adjust your path?

• Give some thought to your future. What is your intention for the year? What would you like to accomplish this year? In your life? Imagining your life 20 yrs. from now can offer a unique perspective.

Have fun with this! Happy February!