Celebrating YOU! A Valentine’s Message

Happy Valentine’s Day!

  This is the day when we’re encouraged to express our love and gratitude to our family, friends, and loved ones.   We give cards.  We buy flowers.  We make special dinners.  But what about you?  I write this post to challenge and inspire you to celebrate yourself on this special day.

  YOU need love too.  The surprise is that you can give love to yourself. As women, we’re so good at giving love to others, some might say we’re experts.  Look to yourself for ways to be more loving and kind TO YOURSELF!

On February 14th I challenge you to:

~Be gentle and kind with yourself throughout the day.  Feel tired?  Take a break.  Catch yourself feeling lonely or sad?  Practice some positive affirmations.

~Do something that makes you feel good – take a walk, see some art, write in your journal.

~Take time to thank yourself for everything you do.  You do so much! 

~Get a good night’s sleep.  Eat a healthy meal.  Drink lots of water.

~Notice the beauty around you in those rare, brief moments of silence. 

~Breathe!  Take a few moments to breathe a little more deeply.

~Let go of your expectations of what you think Valentine’s Day should look like.  If you hope for flowers but rarely get them, buy some for yourself.  If you love romantic movies but your family doesn’t, be sure to watch one on your own.  By recognizing what you want and taking steps to get it, you’re much more likely to enjoy your day. 

~Do things that surprise and delight you.  If you find joy in making cards or chocolates for your friends and family, wonderful!  It feels good to give and share.  Just be sure to save a card or a chocolate (or two!) for you.

Here are some positive affirmations to help you celebrate the day:

I am happy, healthy, beautiful, and strong.

I am lucky in love and in life.

I am surrounded by love, kindness, and generosity.

I have everything I need to thrive and enjoy this day.

I feel good about my life -- past, present, and future.

I feel joy and connection with my friends, family, and community.

I am blessed.

Do you have something special you do for yourself on Valentine’s Day?

Do you have some self-love affirmations you’d like to share?