I am LOVE

To transform our lives, self-love is essential. But what does that even mean? And where on earth do we start? The good news is, simple steps and changes can completely change our lives.

Self-love is about caring for and respecting ourselves every day, in every action and thought. It's about supporting ourselves and being gentle when things get tough. It's about making healthy choices that honour our bodies and minds.

Our inner chatterbox can be incredibly harsh. We wouldn't speak to our loved ones the way we speak to ourselves, so why do we allow this barrage of negativity in our inner world? And why do we listen to this voice? As women, we critique ourselves constantly, which confirms to our subconscious mind that we aren't good enough. At the root of it, this is what we all fear.

Here's the catch....

YOU ARE GOOD ENOUGH.

You are absolutely perfect the way you are.

You are unique.

You are beautiful.

You are gifted.

You are love.

Slowly changing our belief set can be tough but will reap wonderful rewards. We must learn to be our own biggest fans. We must love ourselves unconditionally, and be able to create happiness and joy from within. As you make these changes, you will notice that things in your life start to change, and people start responding to you differently. Simple practices built into our daily routine can make an enormous difference. The best part is, no one can ever take this gift away from you.

Easy ways to practice self-love

1. Be aware that your mind doesn't rule you. You rule your mind.

Start to notice the negative thoughts that come up day to day. Be aware that you do not have to take these thoughts on board. Observing them from the outside will help you see that they do not hold any truth. Visualise placing these thoughts in a river, and watch them drift away from you.

2. Replace negative thoughts with positive ones.

For instance "I feel fat and ugly today" could be replaced with: "I love and accept my body. I am beautiful inside and out". Don't underestimate the power of positive self-talk. What you think becomes your truth. It may feel weird and downright unnatural to think this way, but your subconscious mind is always listening. Raise your vibration. Whatever you give energy to will amplify.

3. Nourish yourself with beautiful food.

We are all human, and it's okay to eat treats on occasion. Adhere to the 80 / 20 rule. Respecting your body by feeding it plenty of healthy food is a wonderful way to love yourself. Extra fruit and vegetables are a great place to start. Eat the rainbow, and you'll feel amazing.

4. Create rituals that make you feel happy and beautiful.

This may be a bubble bath with candles, a ten-minute meditation, or a cup of herbal tea while reading a book. Taking time out just for ourselves is essential. We devote so much of our time to other, but we can't look after anyone else if we are running on empty. Direct some loving, nurturing energy back to yourself, and make time for this every single day.

5. Every time you pass a mirror, compliment yourself.

This may feel weird and unnatural at first, but persist with it. Repeating positive thoughts and affirmations daily will help with body image and self-love. We are all special in our own way, and it's up to us to embrace this; waiting for others to validate us will only leave us disappointed.

6. Get moving.

Regular exercise is vital for the mind, body, and soul. The endorphins released during exercise give us an instant mood boost - and exercising is the perfect time to work on positive affirmations. Try repeating "I am healthy, fit, and happy. I love my body" during your workout. Or even simply "I approve of myself."

7. Practice gratitude.

Every day upon waking, think of at least three things you are grateful for, and do the same before you go to sleep. It could be as simple as being thankful for having a comfortable bed to sleep in, a roof over your head, and loved ones around you. If you're having a bad day, writing a list of things you are grateful for is a quick way to gain perspective and improve your mood.

"Acknowledging the good that you have in your life is the foundation for all abundance."

- Eckhart Tolle

8. Eliminate anything from your life that doesn't serve you.

Stop idolising celebrities, unfollow Instagram accounts that don't make you feel good about yourself, and switch off the reality TV. Comparison is the thief of joy. Don't forget that everyone has bad days, and we all struggle with the same issues. We create separation between us, but we are all here having this crazy human experience together.

Focus on the good, and surround yourself with positive influences. This may mean re-evaluating friendships and relationships that are causing more harm than good. It is said that you are a product of the five people you spend the most time with, so choose carefully. Sometimes we have to let go of the old for wonderful new things to come into our lives.

Know that you have all the tools within you to transform. A simple decision to cultivate self-love will set the wheels in motion and can change your life.

BEAUTY GURU SELF-LOVE MANTRAS

Repeat. All day, every day.

"I approve of myself."

"I love myself."

"I am beautiful, inside and out."

"I allow my higher self to take the wheel."

"I trust in the process."

"I allow myself to be fulfilled, joyful, and abundant."

8 Ways To Love Yourself (And Why It's So Important)