The Art of Self-Love: Returning to Your True Self

“To be beautiful means to be yourself. You don't need to be accepted by others. You just need to accept yourself.”

— Thich Nhat Hanh

How often do your thoughts speak harshly to you?

That inner critic can be relentless—replaying old stories like:

"I’m not good enough. I should’ve done better. If only I were thinner, smarter, more confident..."

These thoughts may seem harmless, even familiar, but over time, they shape how we feel—about ourselves, our worth, and our place in the world. And yet, you have a choice. A different way is possible.

So many of us struggle to offer ourselves the same care and compassion we so freely give to others. We're taught that self-love is selfish, or that accepting ourselves is arrogant. But nothing could be further from the truth.

To love yourself is not to elevate yourself above others—it’s to come home to yourself.

It’s to recognise your complexity, your humanity, your wholeness.

To truly give and receive love, we must first learn to love ourselves. This includes the parts we may prefer to hide—the ones we’ve labelled as not enough, too much, or unworthy. You are more than the face you show the world. And every part of you deserves a place at the table.

When we search for love only from the outside, we become dependent on things that are always shifting—people’s approval, validation, or affection. This can lead to co-dependence, disappointment, and a deep sense of emptiness. But when we turn inward and cultivate love from within, something changes. We soften. We strengthen. We begin to live in alignment with our true Self.

Self-love is not a destination—it’s a practice. It unfolds gently through:

Self-awareness – recognising your thoughts, patterns, and emotions

Self-worth – remembering that you are inherently valuable

Self-esteem – trusting your abilities and contributions

Self-confidence – showing up, even when it’s hard

Self-respect – honouring your boundaries, values, and needs

These qualities can be nurtured and strengthened throughout your life.

Here’s a simple but powerful starting point:

Take a few minutes to write down what you appreciate about yourself. It might be something physical, something you’re naturally good at, or something deeper—like your kindness, your honesty, or your quiet strength.

You may also wish to try this mirror practice:

Look into your own eyes. Say out loud:

“[Your name], I love you.”

The first time I tried this, I ran away from the mirror, convinced it was a silly exercise. But with time, it became a profound practice of acceptance.

To support this journey, I often recommend affirmations as a way to rewire the subconscious and nourish the heart. My Love Vibrational Mist blends gentle aromatherapy and flower essence therapy to support this work—opening the heart chakra and reminding you of your innate capacity for love, both for yourself and others.

Try this affirmation daily:

I am loved

I am loving

I am lovable

I love and accept myself as I am

You are not broken. You are becoming.

You are not alone. You are deeply connected.

You are not too much or not enough. You are exactly who you are meant to be.

Please feel free to share this message—and encourage others to reconnect with their true Self.

With tenderness and truth,

Cathy