Today’s Meditation: Self Love

Taking a pause to reflect on how one feels one the Inside, one may realize different layers of hatefulness towards oneself. Upon deeper reflection on this, it may be apparent that one has not received a positive reflection from the outside world. This may especially be true, if there were negative experiences growing up. As one navigates the world with a negative self-view, the outside events tend to match the inside, causing stressful situations.

If the external world does not reflect our inner worth, it may be easier to decide that this is all one is worth, to be able to cope with the pain.

It might be much more painful to tolerate a hurtful situation when one knows clearly and consciously that one deserves but cannot physically change the external situation.

This may be especially true for when we were children.

As an adult however, as we live in the world carrying the negative self-images and critical voices, the positive events, the miracles and generous gifts from life could affect us less than if we could notice them and be grateful for them.

Ironically, as our internal world changes to include more self-love, gentleness, compassion, acceptance and forgiveness, one may find the external world changing to suit the internal environment.

This is by no means an easy task, especially if one grew up with a lot of hurt. However, it can be done. The simple intent to love oneself can help bring more love within oneself.

Self-love begets more self-love, as we practice it in more and more areas of our lives.

It starts with a single step.

Take a moment to pause now. Think about how you feel on the inside. Do you feel hesitant saying ‘I love you’ to yourself?

If it feels hard, it is no reason to judge oneself about it!

Remember, change can start a with simple step.

Take a deep breath, try to relax your body and tell yourself that you love yourself. Try to feel compassion for yourself. If it feels strange, just accept it and do it again at another time.

Bringing the awareness of self-love when making choices as we go about our day. Ask yourself, when faced with choices –‘’would my future self be happy that I made this choice? Is this a loving choice to myself?’’

If it is still hard to do, consider how you would counsel a friend in a similar situation. Try to see yourself as a friend-share with yourself about your troubles, struggles and things that get you excited and happy.

Try to practice at least one or more of the above suggestions on a regular basis. The goal is not be perfect. The goal is to bring more awareness of oneself amidst one’s everyday hustle and bustle.

With time, one may find the warm fuzzy feeling towards oneself grow with time.

It can start today. It can start now.

Love yourself enough to take the first step- towards greater self-acceptance, joy and Self Love!

How are you incorporating self-love as a conscious practice into your life? Please feel free to share your comments .