WAYS YOU CAN PRACTISE SELF-LOVE

Many of us think ‘self-love’ is basically ‘self-indulgence’, but according to Emma, it’s a must-have skill for happiness

Studies show that self-love and compassion keep depression and anxiety at bay and ensure a sense of balance even in the most challenging times. One helpful strategy to achieve that is to decide to treat yourself how you treat others. You make a huge effort with friends, and chances are, you won’t have told them to pull themselves together or try harder if they want to succeed. You will have been kind and compassionate. Similarly, when your inner critical voice tells you you’re a failure, silence it with kindness. Sit with a pen and paper, and write a list of things you like about yourself.

If you need some help, ask your friends and family what they love about you. Take 15 minutes a day to practise some meditation, or to get out for a walk in the fresh air to plug you back into the here and now, and remind yourself of the bigger picture. While you may love Instagram, you also need time away from social media, because seeing other people’s seemingly perfect lives can affect the way you feel about your own. Life isn’t a competition, and you’re good enough exactly as you are. Feeling good is a by-product of doing things that you enjoy, so if you have a passion that you have let slide, or you haven’t dared to try, do so. When you focus on your intrinsic gifts and activities that inspire you, you automatically feel better about your life. You are an entirely unique masterpiece, so try to treat yourself as the priceless human that you are.