The Journey of Self-Love – Lessons Learned

The Journey of Self-Love – Lessons Learned

by | Sep 13, 2024 | Blog, What Is Self Love

Self-love is a concept that can seem abstract, elusive, or even indulgent until we begin the practice of it ourselves. The very idea of loving oneself can sound straightforward, but it holds the power to unlock transformative growth, inner peace, and self-awareness. When I began to actively practice self-love, I found that it wasn’t a one-dimensional endeavor; rather, it was an intricate process that reshaped how I saw myself and the world around me. In this journey, I learned not only how to appreciate my own worth but also uncovered hidden layers of my identity. I came to realize that self-love is not a destination but an ongoing, evolving practice.

This essay reflects on the various lessons I learned about myself through my journey toward self-love—lessons that have fundamentally changed my outlook on life, relationships, and personal growth.

1. I Am More Than My Achievements

From an early age, I was conditioned to think that my worth was tied to my achievements. Whether it was academics, career, or personal accomplishments, I often gauged my value based on how much I had accomplished. The practice of self-love taught me a critical lesson: I am more than what I achieve.

This realization was profoundly freeing. I discovered that my identity is not just the sum total of my external successes or failures. By learning to love myself without attaching my worth to accomplishments, I began to appreciate other facets of my being—my creativity, kindness, and capacity for empathy. Self-love gave me the space to embrace these parts of myself without constantly striving for validation through external accomplishments.

2. My Inner Critic is Not My True Voice

One of the most enlightening discoveries on my self-love journey was recognizing the distinction between my inner critic and my authentic self. For years, I lived under the harsh judgment of my inner voice, which constantly told me I wasn’t good enough, that I was failing, or that I had to do more to earn love and acceptance. This critic was loud, relentless, and, at times, overwhelming.

Through practicing self-love, I began to question the authority of this critical voice. I learned that this inner critic was not an inherent part of me but rather a manifestation of external pressures, past traumas, and societal expectations. With time and effort, I started to silence this voice by replacing it with words of kindness, compassion, and encouragement. I realized that my true voice was much gentler and more loving than the critic that had dominated my thoughts for so long.

3. Setting Boundaries is Essential for Well-being

One of the more practical lessons I learned while practicing self-love was the importance of setting boundaries. For much of my life, I believed that being a good person meant being available to everyone at all times, even at the expense of my own well-being. I often prioritized others’ needs over my own, thinking that this was an expression of love and kindness.

However, self-love taught me that setting boundaries is not selfish; it is essential for protecting my energy and mental health. By saying “no” when I needed to and creating limits on how much of myself I could give, I began to honor my own needs. This wasn’t an easy lesson to learn, as it involved unlearning long-held beliefs about sacrifice and worthiness. But over time, I realized that setting boundaries allowed me to show up more fully in my relationships, both with myself and others, because I wasn’t constantly drained or resentful.

4. I Am Worthy of Love, Just as I Am

A pivotal moment in my self-love journey was the realization that I am inherently worthy of love—just as I am. For years, I operated under the assumption that love had to be earned through perfection or through constant giving. Whether it was in relationships, friendships, or family dynamics, I always felt that I had to prove my worthiness by being everything to everyone.

Self-love helped me see that worthiness is not conditional. I don’t need to be perfect, have all the answers, or constantly give to others to be deserving of love. This lesson fundamentally shifted how I approached relationships. Instead of seeking validation or approval from others, I began to cultivate a sense of self-worth that came from within. This newfound sense of self-worth allowed me to approach relationships from a place of abundance rather than lack.

5. Embracing Imperfection is Empowering

I used to think that being imperfect was something to hide or fix. Whether it was flaws in my appearance, personality, or actions, I often felt ashamed of not being “good enough.” However, self-love revealed to me that imperfection is not a weakness but a part of what makes me human. In fact, embracing imperfection became one of the most empowering aspects of my self-love journey.

I learned to stop striving for an unattainable standard of perfection and instead embraced my flaws, quirks, and mistakes as valuable parts of my growth. This shift in mindset helped me become more authentic and vulnerable in my relationships, as I no longer felt the need to present a curated or idealized version of myself. By accepting my imperfections, I not only found more compassion for myself but also for others, realizing that we are all beautifully imperfect in our own ways.

6. Self-Care is Non-Negotiable

Before I started practicing self-love, I viewed self-care as something indulgent or optional. I believed that taking time for myself was a luxury I couldn’t afford amid the demands of daily life. However, as I began to engage in acts of self-love, I realized that self-care is not a luxury—it’s a necessity.

Taking time to care for my physical, mental, and emotional health became a crucial part of my daily routine. Whether it was through meditation, journaling, exercising, or simply taking a break, self-care helped me recharge and reconnect with myself. It taught me that I cannot pour from an empty cup and that nurturing my own well-being allows me to show up more fully in all areas of my life.

7. My Emotions Are Valid and Worth Listening To

Before practicing self-love, I often dismissed or suppressed my emotions, especially the difficult ones like anger, sadness, or frustration. I believed that feeling negative emotions was a sign of weakness, so I tried to avoid them as much as possible. However, self-love taught me that all of my emotions are valid and deserve to be felt, acknowledged, and understood.

Through self-reflection and mindfulness, I began to see my emotions as valuable messengers. They were not something to be feared or avoided but a source of insight into my inner world. I learned to sit with discomfort, allowing myself to feel my emotions fully without judgment. This process of emotional validation deepened my connection with myself and helped me develop greater resilience in the face of challenges.

8. Forgiveness is a Gift I Give Myself

One of the most difficult lessons I encountered in my self-love journey was the practice of self-forgiveness. For years, I held onto guilt and shame for past mistakes, replaying old scenarios in my mind and berating myself for not having done better. This habit kept me trapped in a cycle of self-criticism and regret, unable to move forward.

Self-love taught me the importance of forgiving myself. I learned that holding onto guilt only prolonged my suffering and that true healing came from letting go of the past. By practicing self-forgiveness, I freed myself from the weight of old wounds and allowed space for growth and renewal. Forgiving myself was an act of compassion that helped me break free from the cycles of shame and embrace a future of possibility.

9. Self-Love is an Ongoing Practice

Perhaps the most important lesson I learned in this journey is that self-love is not a one-time achievement or a fixed state. It’s an ongoing, evolving practice that requires patience, commitment, and effort. There are days when I feel deeply connected to myself and others, and there are days when I struggle with doubt or self-criticism. However, self-love has taught me to be gentle with myself on this path and to view setbacks as opportunities for growth.

I’ve come to understand that self-love is not about always feeling good or being perfect. It’s about showing up for myself consistently, even when it’s difficult. It’s about choosing to care for myself, honor my needs, and treat myself with kindness, regardless of external circumstances. This practice has become a foundational part of my life, shaping how I approach challenges, relationships, and personal growth.

10. I Am My Own Best Friend

One of the most beautiful outcomes of practicing self-love is the deep friendship I’ve cultivated with myself. I’ve learned to enjoy my own company, to trust my intuition, and to celebrate my strengths. This inner companionship has helped me develop a sense of security and self-reliance that is not dependent on external validation or approval.

By becoming my own best friend, I’ve learned that I can offer myself the love, support, and encouragement that I used to seek from others. This doesn’t mean that I don’t value my relationships, but it means that I no longer depend on them to fill a void. I’ve discovered that I am whole on my own, and that self-love is the foundation upon which all other forms of love can flourish.

Conclusion

The journey toward self-love has been one of the most transformative experiences of my life. It has taught me invaluable lessons about my worth, my emotions, my relationships, and my ability to grow. While the practice of self-love is ongoing and evolving, it has given me the tools to navigate life with greater compassion, resilience, and inner peace. Through this journey, I’ve learned that I am deserving of love, not because of what I do, but because of who I am—and that, in itself.

© D’vorah Elias 2024

#loveyourself

#chooseyourself

www.womansuperpowers.com

 

What is Anxiety?

What is Anxiety?

by | Aug 30, 2024 | Anxiety, Blog

Anxiety is a natural human response to stress or danger. It is a feeling of unease, fear, or apprehension about what is to come. While it is normal to experience occasional anxiety, such as before a big event or during a challenging situation, anxiety becomes a concern when it is persistent, excessive, and interferes with daily life.
Anxiety can manifest in various ways, including physical symptoms, such as increased heart rate, rapid breathing, sweating, trembling, and digestive issues. It can also lead to psychological symptoms, such as restlessness, irritability, difficulty concentrating, racing thoughts, and excessive worry. Some people may experience panic attacks, which are intense episodes of fear or discomfort accompanied by physical symptoms.
What role does the amygdala play in anxiety?
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The amygdala plays a crucial role in anxiety. It is an almond-shaped structure located deep within the brain’s temporal lobe and is involved in processing emotions, including fear and anxiety.
Here are some key aspects of the amygdala’s role in anxiety:
  1. Fear Conditioning: The amygdala is essential for the process of fear conditioning, which involves associating a previously neutral stimulus with fear or aversive experiences. When we encounter a fearful or threatening situation, the amygdala helps us form and store memories of the event, allowing us to respond appropriately in similar situations in the future.
  2. Threat Detection: The amygdala acts as an early warning system, rapidly detecting potential threats in the environment. It receives sensory information from the senses, such as visual or auditory cues, and processes them for potential threats. If the amygdala perceives a threat, it can trigger a cascade of physiological responses associated with anxiety, such as increased heart rate, sweating, and heightened arousal.
  3. Emotional Regulation: The amygdala interacts with other brain regions involved in emotional regulation, such as the prefrontal cortex. In individuals with anxiety disorders, there may be an imbalance in the regulation of amygdala activity, resulting in heightened anxiety responses. The prefrontal cortex normally helps to inhibit or modulate the amygdala’s fear response, but disruptions in this regulation can lead to excessive or prolonged anxiety.
  4. Anxiety Disorders: Dysfunction or hyperactivity in the amygdala has been implicated in various anxiety disorders, including generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), panic disorder, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). In individuals with these conditions, the amygdala may exhibit exaggerated fear responses or be more easily activated, leading to chronic anxiety and heightened sensitivity to potential threats.
It’s important to note that anxiety is a complex condition influenced by multiple factors, including genetics, environment, and other brain regions.
While the amygdala plays a significant role in anxiety, it is just one component of a larger network of brain regions involved in the experience and regulation of anxiety.
Anxiety disorders are a group of mental health conditions characterized by excessive and persistent anxiety.
These disorders include generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), social anxiety disorder (SAD), panic disorder, specific phobias, and others. These conditions can significantly impact a person’s daily life, relationships, work or school performance, and overall well-being.
The causes of anxiety are complex and can involve a combination of genetic, environmental, and psychological factors. Traumatic experiences, a family history of anxiety or other mental health disorders, imbalances in brain chemistry, and ongoing stress are some common contributing factors.
Treatment for anxiety often involves a combination of therapy, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), which helps individuals identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviors, and medication, such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) or benzodiazepines, which can help manage symptoms.
Lifestyle changes, including stress management techniques, regular exercise, adequate sleep, and a healthy diet, can also play a significant role in managing anxiety.
Anxiety is a natural human response to stress or perceived threats.
It is a normal and often temporary reaction that everyone experiences from time to time. However, for some individuals, anxiety can become persistent, excessive, and disruptive to their daily lives. Anxiety disorders are a group of mental health conditions characterized by intense and prolonged feelings of fear, worry, or unease.
Anxiety can manifest in various ways, including physical, cognitive, and emotional symptoms.
Physical symptoms may include increased heart rate, rapid breathing, sweating, trembling, muscle tension, and restlessness. Cognitive symptoms can involve excessive worrying, racing thoughts, difficulty concentrating, and irrational fears or phobias. Emotionally, anxiety may cause feelings of apprehension, irritability, restlessness, and a sense of impending doom.
There are several types of anxiety disorders, such as generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), panic disorder, social anxiety disorder, specific phobias, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). These disorders differ in their specific triggers and symptoms, but they all involve excessive and persistent anxiety.
Treatment for anxiety disorders typically involves a combination of therapy, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), and medication, such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) or benzodiazepines. Lifestyle changes, stress management techniques, and self-care practices can also be helpful in managing anxiety. It’s important for individuals experiencing anxiety to seek professional help for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
What are the most prominent symptoms of anxiety?
The symptoms of anxiety can vary from person to person and may differ depending on the specific anxiety disorder. However, some of the most prominent symptoms of anxiety include:
  1. Excessive Worrying: Persistent and uncontrollable worrying about various aspects of life, such as work, health, finances, or relationships, even when there is no apparent reason for concern.
  2. Restlessness and Irritability: Feeling on edge, restless, or agitated. Individuals with anxiety may have difficulty relaxing or staying still. They may also become easily irritable or have a shorter temper.
  3. Muscle Tension: Physical symptoms such as muscle tension, tightness, or aches. This can manifest as tension headaches, backaches, jaw pain, or other bodily discomfort.
  4. Sleep Problems: Difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep, or experiencing restless and unsatisfying sleep. Anxiety can also cause nightmares or night sweats.
  5. Fatigue and Low Energy: Feeling constantly tired, lacking energy, or experiencing a general sense of fatigue, even without engaging in physically or mentally demanding activities.
  6. Racing Thoughts and Difficulty Concentrating: Having a racing mind with a constant flow of anxious thoughts. This can make it challenging to concentrate, focus, or make decisions.
  7. Physical Symptoms: Anxiety can manifest in various physical symptoms, such as increased heart rate, palpitations, shortness of breath, dizziness, sweating, trembling, upset stomach, nausea, or diarrhea.
  8. Panic Attacks: Intense episodes of fear or discomfort, accompanied by physical symptoms like a racing heart, chest pain, shortness of breath, trembling, sweating, and a sense of impending doom. Panic attacks can be brief but very distressing.
  9. Avoidance Behavior: Avoiding situations or places that may trigger anxiety or panic attacks. This can include avoiding social gatherings, public speaking, or specific phobias.
  10. Emotional Distress: Feeling overwhelmed, on edge, or having a constant sense of dread. Anxiety can also lead to irritability, mood swings, and difficulty managing emotions.
It’s important to note that experiencing one or a few of these symptoms doesn’t necessarily mean someone has an anxiety disorder. However, if these symptoms persist, intensify, or significantly interfere with daily life, it’s advisable to seek professional help for a proper diagnosis and treatment.
Anxiety can manifest in a variety of symptoms, and individuals may experience different combinations of these symptoms. Here are some of the most prominent symptoms associated with anxiety:
  1. Excessive Worrying: Persistent and uncontrollable worrying about various aspects of life, such as work, relationships, health, or future events.
  2. Restlessness and Agitation: Feeling on edge, unable to relax, and being easily irritable or agitated.
  3. Muscle Tension: Physical symptoms such as muscle tightness, aches, or tension headaches.
  4. Fatigue: Feeling tired, low on energy, or experiencing difficulty in sleeping due to racing thoughts or restlessness.
  5. Difficulty Concentrating: Finding it hard to focus or concentrate on tasks, as the mind is preoccupied with anxious thoughts.
  6. Racing Thoughts: A rapid flow of thoughts, often jumping from one worry to another, making it challenging to maintain a clear and focused mind.
  7. Irrational Fears and Phobias: Experiencing intense and irrational fears or phobias, such as fear of specific objects, situations, or social interactions.
  8. Panic Attacks: Sudden and overwhelming episodes of intense fear or discomfort, accompanied by physical symptoms like rapid heartbeat, shortness of breath, dizziness, chest pain, or sweating.
  9. Sleep Problems: Difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep, or having restless and disturbed sleep patterns.
  10. Gastrointestinal Issues: Anxiety can affect the digestive system, leading to symptoms such as stomachaches, nausea, diarrhea, or irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
  11. Social Withdrawal: Avoiding social situations or feeling uncomfortable in social settings due to fear of judgment or embarrassment.
It’s important to note that the severity and combination of symptoms can vary from person to person. If you or someone you know is experiencing significant distress or impairment due to anxiety symptoms, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis and guidance on treatment options.
How can I manage my anxiety without taking medication?
Managing anxiety without medication is possible and often involves a combination of lifestyle changes, self-help strategies, and professional support. Here are some techniques that may help:
  1. Practice relaxation techniques: Deep breathing exercises, progressive muscle relaxation, meditation, and mindfulness can help calm your mind and body during anxious moments. Regular practice can also improve your overall resilience to anxiety.
  2. Exercise regularly: Physical activity releases endorphins, which are natural mood-boosting chemicals in the brain. Engaging in regular exercise, such as walking, jogging, or yoga, can help reduce anxiety symptoms and promote a sense of well-being.
  3. Prioritize sleep: Lack of sleep can worsen anxiety symptoms. Establish a regular sleep routine, create a comfortable sleep environment, limit caffeine intake, and practice relaxation techniques before bed to improve the quality of your sleep.
  4. Maintain a balanced diet: Eat nutritious meals, including fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Avoid excessive caffeine, alcohol, and sugary foods, as they can exacerbate anxiety symptoms.
  5. Limit stress triggers: Identify situations, activities, or people that contribute to your anxiety and try to minimize exposure to them. Set boundaries, delegate tasks, and learn to say “no” when necessary to reduce unnecessary stress.
  6. Cognitive-behavioral techniques: Challenge negative and irrational thoughts that fuel your anxiety. Replace them with more realistic and positive thoughts. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) techniques, such as journaling, thought records, and reframing, can be helpful in this process.
  7. Seek support: Talk to trusted friends or family members about your anxiety. Sharing your feelings with others can provide relief and a fresh perspective. Consider joining a support group or seeking professional therapy. Therapists can teach you coping skills and provide guidance tailored to your specific needs.
  8. Time management and self-care: Organize your time and prioritize tasks to reduce overwhelming feelings. Engage in activities you enjoy, practice self-care routines, and make time for relaxation and hobbies to reduce stress levels.
  9. Avoid self-medicating: While it’s important to find healthy coping mechanisms, be cautious about relying on substances like alcohol, drugs, or excessive food as a way to cope with anxiety. These behaviors can lead to dependency and worsen anxiety in the long run.
Remember, everyone’s experience with anxiety is unique, and it’s important to find strategies that work best for you. If your anxiety persists or significantly interferes with your daily life, it’s advisable to consult a mental health professional for additional guidance and support.
Are medications used in the treatment of anxiety addictive?
Some medications used in the treatment of anxiety can be addictive, while others are not. It depends on the specific medication and how it affects the individual. Medications that belong to the class of benzodiazepines, such as Xanax (alprazolam), Ativan (lorazepam), and Valium (diazepam), have the potential for addiction if used improperly or for a prolonged period.
Benzodiazepines are effective in managing acute symptoms of anxiety, but they are generally prescribed for short-term use due to their addictive nature. Prolonged or excessive use can lead to physical and psychological dependence. Abrupt discontinuation of these medications after long-term use can result in withdrawal symptoms.
On the other hand, there are other medications commonly used for anxiety that are not addictive. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) are the most commonly prescribed antidepressants for anxiety disorders. These medications, such as Prozac (fluoxetine), Zoloft (sertraline), and Effexor (venlafaxine), work by balancing neurotransmitters in the brain and are not addictive.
It is important to note that even non-addictive medications can have withdrawal symptoms if abruptly discontinued, but these symptoms are generally less severe than those associated with benzodiazepines. If you have concerns about the potential for addiction with a specific medication, it is best to discuss your concerns with a healthcare professional who can provide you with accurate information and guidance.
How can I get off my anxiety medication without going through withdrawal?
I’m not a doctor, but I can offer you some general information. It’s important to consult with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your medication regimen, especially when it comes to anxiety medication. They can provide you with personalized advice and guidance based on your specific situation. That being said, here are a few general tips to consider:
  1. Communicate with your healthcare provider: Share your desire to taper off your anxiety medication with your doctor. They will be able to assess your current condition, evaluate the appropriateness of reducing or discontinuing your medication, and guide you through the process.
  2. Gradual tapering: If your doctor determines that it’s appropriate to discontinue your medication, they will likely recommend a gradual tapering schedule. This involves slowly reducing your dosage over a period of time. Tapering allows your body to adjust to lower levels of the medication and may help minimize withdrawal symptoms.
  3. Regular monitoring: Throughout the tapering process, it’s important to maintain regular communication with your healthcare provider. They will monitor your progress, provide support, and make adjustments to the tapering schedule if needed.
  4. Implement stress management techniques: As you taper off medication, it can be helpful to incorporate stress management techniques into your daily routine. These may include exercise, mindfulness meditation, deep breathing exercises, journaling, seeking support from friends and family, and engaging in activities you enjoy.
  5. Consider therapy or counseling: Talk therapy, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), can be beneficial in managing anxiety. Consider working with a therapist or counselor who can help you develop coping mechanisms and strategies to deal with anxiety symptoms as you transition off medication.
Remember, everyone’s situation is unique, and what works for one person may not work for another. That’s why it’s crucial to consult with a healthcare professional who can provide personalized advice based on your specific needs.
Can a life coach teach me anxiety reduction strategies?
Yes, a life coach can certainly teach you anxiety reduction strategies. Many life coaches are trained in techniques and strategies to help individuals manage and reduce anxiety. They can work with you to develop personalized strategies based on your specific needs and goals.
Here are a few common anxiety reduction strategies that a life coach might teach you:
  1. Deep breathing exercises: Learning and practicing deep breathing techniques can help calm your nervous system and reduce anxiety. A life coach can guide you through various breathing exercises and help you incorporate them into your daily routine.
  2. Mindfulness and meditation: Mindfulness and meditation techniques can help you cultivate present-moment awareness and develop a calmer state of mind. A life coach can teach you different mindfulness exercises and guide you in establishing a regular meditation practice.
  3. Cognitive reframing: This technique involves identifying and challenging negative or anxious thought patterns and replacing them with more positive and realistic ones. A life coach can help you recognize unhelpful thinking patterns and provide strategies to reframe your thoughts in a healthier and more constructive way.
  4. Stress management techniques: A life coach can help you develop effective stress management strategies to reduce overall anxiety levels. This may involve exploring time management, setting boundaries, and incorporating self-care activities into your routine.
  5. Goal setting and action planning: Setting clear goals and creating actionable steps can provide a sense of control and direction, reducing anxiety. A life coach can assist you in defining your goals, breaking them down into manageable tasks, and holding you accountable for your progress.
Remember that while a life coach can provide guidance and support, if you’re experiencing severe anxiety or a mental health condition, it’s important to seek help from a qualified mental health professional, such as a therapist or psychologist. They can provide specialized therapy and interventions tailored to your specific needs.
What’s Self-Love Got To Do With Anxiety?

What’s Self-Love Got To Do With Anxiety?

by | Aug 30, 2024 | Anxiety, Blog

What in the world does self-love have to do with anxiety and how women manage their anxiety, or rather don’t manage it?
It’s a good question, and the answer is not apparent on the surface. So sit back and pour yourself a cup of Joe because this is going to be a complicated (but interesting) read. Trust me on this.
A woman’s ability to sincerely love herself is all tangled up in socialization. Women are conditioned from a very early age to take care of everyone—but themselves, that is.
We are also conditioned to be highly critical of ourselves and place very high value on our appearance and how we are viewed by others. These so-called “values,” which are instilled in us during childhood, drive our anxiety very handily because we are also subject to the sometimes extreme harsh criticism of others based on how we behave, how we look, what we say, our level of education, and the kind of job we hold. Stay with me here.
But what most of us don’t realize is this: for many women, the very thought of being judged by others on this type of criteria can be enough to provoke an anxiety attack because being judged by anyone is very intimidating.
It is also extremely invalidating and causes most of us to feel like we always have to prove ourselves and our worth to the world at large. The threat is that we are being evaluated on things over which we only have limited control, and that can be highly menacing. The problem becomes when we internalize these judgments within ourselves and begin to incorporate them in the way we see/view ourselves.
When that happens, we essentially take over the job of the external “judger” and become our own worst critic.
When you love yourself, you are much less likely to be threatened by such judgment of others because you are more secure in who you are as an individual and how you feel about yourself.
Thus, people who love themselves tend to have fewer issues with anxiety. They don’t take these insignificant words or looks laid upon them by others and use them to judge themselves.
If you don’t know how to love yourself, is it possible to learn? Yes, but it may feel overwhelming when considering where to start. This is where mindfulness plays an important part. And this is exactly why mindfulness is the foundation of the skills we teach at Woman Super Powers. When you are practicing mindfulness, you make a point of staying in the present moment.
Thoughts and feelings may intrude on this state of mind, and when they do, as discussed previously, you acknowledge the thoughts and feelings and then return to your mindfulness practice.
Practicing self-love naturally leads to the practice of self-compassion because you are able to forgive yourself for and understand your own humanity. People who live with high-functioning anxiety benefit the most from the practice of self-love because they are able to minimize the disruption to their daily lives by being able to simply cut themselves some slack when things are getting to them. As you progress in your new stability, you will get more adept at recognizing the symptoms of an impending anxiety attack.
The goal here is to recognize it when it presents itself on the horizon and “talk yourself down” with gentle, loving words instead of heaping more unrelenting criticism that simply feeds the anxiety.
Loving yourself more will allow you to silence those negative, intrusive, and destructive inner thoughts so you can crawl back from the edge sooner.
Being able to crawl away from the edge is key when starting to harness anxiety and turn it into your own Woman Super Power.
At Woman Super Powers, we offer an eight-week course on anxiety reduction strategies that is founded on the practice of mindfulness for all these reasons. These strategies allow our clients to create a Teflon coating that will shield them from external criticism, which is one of the biggest drivers of anxiety events.
#womansuperpowers
#chooseyourself
#loveyourself
#anxietyreductionstrategies
How practicing mindfulness helps anxiety

How practicing mindfulness helps anxiety

by | Aug 30, 2024 | Blog, Mindfulness

Image courtesy of unsplash.com
If you’ve ever had anxiety, you know it can be a very disorienting and unsettling experience. But there’s something that makes it worse: worrying that it might happen again in the future—worrying about what other people think or worrying about how things will turn out. When this worry starts to take over your mind and affect your day-to-day life, it’s called an anxiety disorder. Fortunately for those suffering from this condition (and others), there are ways to deal with it! One way is by practicing mindfulness so that you can focus on the present moment instead of dwelling on worries about yesterday or tomorrow.
The practice of mindfulness is all about being present. When you are in the present moment, your mind is not running through a million thoughts and worries about what’s going on at home or work.
You are actually focusing on things that matter to you—like the smell of coffee brewing, or how much fun your dog is having while you play soccer with him, or having a meal with some cherished friends. You enjoy what you are doing, who you are with, or even what you are eating as you are not worrying about anything else. Being mindful and in the present also keeps you from worrying about things that may or may not transpire in the future. This is helpful because it keeps us from catastrophizing, another major cause of anxiety. Practicing mindfulness helps us because it also keeps us from going back over things that happened in the past again and again and rethinking how we might have done things differently. This is good because we all know, intellectually, that we can not control what has already happened, nor what will happen in the future.
Living in the moment also helps us feel more connected with other people around us because we’re not thinking about other things that might be happening in their lives at that moment (which may cause them stress). That doesn’t matter as much when I’m focused on my own thoughts instead! Being able to connect deeply with others is part of why working towards mindfulness has been shown time after time by studies like this one done by researchers at Harvard University in 2015: “Mindfulness training improves attentional control during social interactions.”
An awareness of your thoughts
Mindfulness is about being aware of your thoughts, not trying to control them. For example, you may think, “I should be able to do this faster,” and then get frustrated when you can’t do it faster. This kind of thinking might lead you into an anxious state if you keep it up. Mindfulness teaches us that we’re not in control over how fast things happen and instead accept them as they come at us without judgment or expectation of how they should be done.
Acceptance of your thoughts
When you accept your thoughts, you are accepting the fact that they are just that: thoughts. They don’t have to be true or accurate—they just exist in your mind. You can choose not to act on them (or at least not immediately), and this will help reduce anxiety levels by giving yourself space from a potentially harmful thought pattern. Being able to accept your thoughts will help you develop a foundation for dealing with them more effectively.
Acceptance is also not approval: If someone expresses concern about something, but you respond with an angry response instead of taking time for yourself and reflecting on what they said, that is not acceptance. Acceptance does not mean agreement; it means being able to look at the issue objectively without getting upset or angry with it over something another person said or did.
This leads us back to our first point: mindfulness helps anxiety because it teaches us how best to handle difficult situations while keeping ourselves balanced emotionally so we don’t get overwhelmed by negative emotions like anger or sadness (or any combination thereof).
Experiencing emotions without judgment
  • Accepting your emotions is the first step to experiencing them without judgment. If you’re feeling anxious, angry, or sad, don’t push those feelings away—accept that they are there and allow yourself time to process them.
  • Recognizing that emotions are normal but not permanent can help you feel more free of stress when they arise in your life. Emotions come and go all the time—they’re part of being human. They are part of what makes us human.
  • Focusing on the moment decreases the time you spend worrying about what happened or what might happen next.
When you focus on the present, you don’t have time to worry about what happened yesterday or what might happen tomorrow.
It puts an end to all the excessive ruminating. It allows you to stop worrying about what other people think of you and how they’ll react if they find out how much anxiety you’ve been experiencing lately.
I’m not saying it’s easy being mindful all day, every day; in fact, it is difficult to stay in a mindful state constantly. That is why it is best to move in and out of mindful states throughout the day. Practicing mindfulness can help reduce some of our most common sources of stress: anxiety and depression (which often go hand in hand).
If you find yourself struggling with anxiety, it’s important to remember that there are many different ways to deal with the symptoms. With these tools in mind, you can find the best one for your specific needs!
At Woman Super Powers, we offer a ten-week course on anxiety reduction strategies that are founded  on the practice of mindfulness.
These strategies allow our clients to create a Teflon coating that will shield them from external criticism, one of the biggest drivers of anxiety events.
At Woman Super Powers, we offer a ten-week course on anxiety reduction strategies that is founded on the scientific practice of mindfulness. Our modality and anxiety reduction strategies allow our clients to create a Teflon coating that will shield them from external criticism, one of the biggest drivers of anxiety events. Contact us today to get started.
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What exactly is self-love?

What exactly is self-love?

by | Aug 29, 2024 | Blog, What Is Self Love

What is self-love, and how to best practice it
Self-love refers to having a positive and healthy attitude towards oneself. It involves treating oneself with kindness, respect, and understanding, and recognizing one’s own worth and value as a person. Some ways to practice self-love include:
  • Practicing self-care, such as getting enough sleep, exercise, and nutritious food
  • Setting boundaries and saying “no” to things that don’t serve you
  • Treating yourself with kindness and forgiveness
  • Practicing mindfulness and being present in the moment
  • Surrounding yourself with positive and supportive people
  • Engaging in activities that bring you joy and fulfillment
  • Learning to accept and love yourself for who you are, including your flaws and imperfections
  • Practicing self-compassion and self-kindness.
It’s important to note that self-love is not self-absorption, but rather it is having a healthy respect for oneself, which leads to better relationships with others. Self-love is also a continuous process and takes time, effort, and patience to cultivate.
Self-love refers to the act of treating oneself with kindness, respect, and compassion. It involves valuing oneself and taking care of one’s physical, emotional, and mental well-being.
Here are some ways to practice self-love:
  • Set boundaries and prioritize your own needs.
  • Engage in self-care activities, such as exercise, healthy eating, and getting enough sleep.
  • Practice gratitude and focus on the positive aspects of your life.
  • Challenge negative self-talk and replace it with positive affirmations.
  • Surround yourself with people who support and uplift you.
  • Take time for hobbies and activities that bring you joy and fulfillment.
  • Learn to forgive yourself and let go of past mistakes by acknowledging that everyone makes mistakes and they do not define you.
  • Accept and embrace your imperfections and unique qualities.
  • Seek professional help if you struggle with self-love.
It’s important to note that self-love is a process, and it takes time and effort to build; it’s not a one-time thing; it’s a daily practice.
Self-love is the practice of caring for and valuing oneself. It involves treating oneself with kindness and compassion and taking the time to understand and accept one’s own needs and limitations. Some ways to practice self-love include setting boundaries, engaging in self-care activities, speaking kindly to oneself, and making time for hobbies and interests. It also involves forgiving oneself for past mistakes and learning from them, instead of dwelling on them. Practicing self-love can help improve overall well-being and lead to healthier relationships with others.
Self-love and self-compassion are related concepts, but they are not the same thing. Self-love refers to the belief in one’s own worth and the acceptance of oneself, while self-compassion involves treating oneself with kindness, understanding, and forgiveness when faced with personal inadequacies or failures. In other words, self-love is about having positive feelings towards oneself, while self-compassion is about treating oneself with kindness and understanding when things go wrong. Both self-love and self-compassion are important for overall well-being and mental health.
Self-love and self-compassion are closely related concepts. Self-love refers to accepting and valuing oneself, while self-compassion involves being kind, supportive, and understanding towards oneself during times of suffering or difficulty.
In other words, self-love is more about having a positive attitude and mindset towards oneself, while self-compassion is more about how one treats oneself in challenging situations.
However, self-compassion is an essential component of self-love. When we practice self-compassion, we are acknowledging our struggles and treating ourselves with the same care and concern we would show to a loved one. This can help to foster a sense of self-love and acceptance, as we learn to be gentle and supportive towards ourselves.
In summary, self-compassion is a key aspect of self-love, as it involves treating ourselves with kindness and understanding, which can help to cultivate a positive relationship with oneself.
What is the relationship between self-love and self-compassion?
Self-love and self-compassion are closely related concepts that involve having a positive and caring attitude towards oneself.
Self-love refers to accepting and valuing oneself, recognizing one’s strengths and weaknesses, and treating oneself with kindness, respect, and care. It involves having a deep sense of self-awareness and self-acceptance and being able to nurture oneself in a way that promotes personal growth and well-being.
Self-compassion, on the other hand, involves treating oneself with kindness, understanding, and empathy in the face of adversity or personal suffering. It involves recognizing one’s own pain and suffering and responding with kindness, understanding, and compassion, rather than harsh self-judgment or criticism.
In other words, self-love is about developing a positive and nurturing relationship with oneself, while self-compassion is about responding to one’s own suffering with kindness and care. Both self-love and self-compassion are important for developing a healthy sense of self-worth, resilience, and well-being.
Self-love and self-compassion are two related but distinct concepts. Self-love refers to the unconditional positive regard and acceptance of oneself, including one’s strengths, weaknesses, and flaws. Self-compassion, on the other hand, involves treating oneself with kindness, understanding, and care when faced with difficulties, pain, or failures.
Self-love and self-compassion can reinforce each other. When we have a strong sense of self-love, we are more likely to be self-compassionate because we value ourselves and believe that we deserve care and support. Similarly, practicing self-compassion can help to cultivate self-love, as we learn to treat ourselves with kindness and acceptance, even when we make mistakes or struggle with challenges.
Both self-love and self-compassion are essential for cultivating a healthy, balanced relationship with oneself. When we have a strong foundation of self-love and self-compassion, we are more resilient in the face of adversity, more able to bounce back from setbacks, and more likely to engage in self-care and self-improvement in a sustainable, nurturing way.
Self-love and self-compassion are two related but distinct concepts. Self-love refers to having a positive regard for oneself and treating oneself with kindness, respect, and acceptance. It involves recognizing one’s worth and embracing all aspects of oneself, including flaws and imperfections.
Self-compassion, on the other hand, is a specific type of self-love that involves responding to oneself with kindness, understanding, and concern in times of difficulty, failure, or suffering. It involves acknowledging one’s pain and suffering and offering oneself the same compassion and support that one would offer to a good friend or loved one.
So, while self-love is a general attitude of self-acceptance and appreciation, self-compassion is a more specific practice of responding to one’s own suffering with kindness and understanding. Practicing self-compassion can help foster self-love by allowing individuals to treat themselves with kindness and acceptance even in times of difficulty. Similarly, cultivating self-love can make it easier to practice self-compassion by providing a foundation of self-acceptance and self-worth.
Self-love and self-compassion are important for promoting a healthy sense of well-being and resilience.
Here are some ways to practice self-love and self-compassion:
  1. Practice mindfulness: Mindfulness involves being present in the moment and non-judgmentally observing your thoughts and emotions. It can help you become more aware of your inner critic and replace negative self-talk with self-compassion.
  2. Treat yourself with kindness: Speak to yourself in a kind and supportive way, just as you would to a good friend. Avoid harsh self-criticism and focus on your strengths and positive qualities.
  3. Set healthy boundaries: Learn to say no when you need to, and don’t overcommit yourself. It’s important to prioritize your own well-being and not feel guilty about taking care of yourself.
  4. Engage in self-care: Take time to do things that bring you joy and promote relaxation, such as taking a bath, going for a walk, or reading a book.
  5. Practice gratitude: Focus on what you have and express gratitude for the positive things in your life. This can help shift your mindset towards a more positive and compassionate perspective.
  6. Forgive yourself: Remember that everyone makes mistakes, and it’s okay to have flaws. Forgive yourself for past mistakes and focus on learning and growing from them.
Remember that practicing self-love and self-compassion is an ongoing process, and it’s important to be patient and gentle with yourself as you work towards cultivating these qualities.
Practicing self-love and self-compassion can be a powerful way to improve your overall well-being and lead a more fulfilling life. Here are some tips to help you practice self-love and self-compassion:
  1. Practice self-care: Take time to care for yourself physically, mentally, and emotionally. This may include getting enough sleep, exercising regularly, eating healthy foods, and engaging in activities that bring you joy.
  2. Challenge negative self-talk: Be aware of your self-talk and try to replace negative thoughts with positive ones. Focus on your strengths and achievements rather than your flaws and mistakes.
  3. Practice mindfulness: Mindfulness involves being fully present in the moment and accepting your thoughts and feelings without judgment. Try to practice mindfulness through meditation, yoga, or other mindful activities.
  4. Practice gratitude: Focus on what you are grateful for in your life. This can help you shift your focus from what you lack to what you have.
  5. Set healthy boundaries: Set boundaries with others to protect your time and energy. Say no to things that don’t serve you or that you don’t have the capacity for.
  6. Forgive yourself: Let go of past mistakes and forgive yourself. Remember that everyone makes mistakes and that you are worthy of love and compassion.
Remember that self-love and self-compassion are practices, and it may take time and effort to incorporate them into your life. Be patient with yourself and keep practicing, and over time you will begin to see the positive impact on your life.
Copyright by Woman Super Powers All Rights Reserved | 2024