February 16, 2022

Wondering how to practice self-love? Here’s Steph’s tips!

When we think about love in a romantic way, we are fully aware that our relationships will have ups and downs, twists and turns, good times and bad. But when it comes to loving ourselves, there’s an internal expectation that we ‘should’ love ourselves all of the time. 

When the reality is, it’s not possible to wake up everyday in love with who you are, how you’re feeling or what you look like. Self acceptance on the other hand, is a feeling that we should aim to come close every day. Practicing regular, small steps of self-love and acceptance should leave you feeling content, and ready to take on anything just as you are. It’s all about finding your personal self-love recipe towards a happier, healthier and more confident you. 

 

I thought I’d share a few things that I keep in my self-love tool box: 

1. Consume content that fills my cup

Most of you probably know this about me, but I’m obsessed with Disney movies. If I’m every feeling low and in need of some me-time, watching a Disney movie on the couch is my perfect pick-me-up. Find what works for you, it might be getting lost in a book, listening to your favourite podcast or zoning out to a blissful playlist. Make sure you out your phone down and make time for content that fills you with joy!

2. Run a hot bath

I grew up watching my mum make herself a bath at least once a week and it was her alone time. She always lit a candle and read a book, and I think now as an adult I can see why she found them so relaxing. Bath bomb or bubbles are absolutely necessary!

3. Self-Love Affirmations

I’m a big fan of affirmations, they’re such a powerful way to set you up with a positive mindset. Just this week we released 6 self-love affirmations to the KIC app, they’re short, sweet & guided by Laura and myself. It’s been such a beautiful experience writing and recording these affirmations, we truly hope they bring you confidence, calm and empowerment.

4. Move my body

Exercise is something that I look forward to each day. It’s that little slice of the day when Harvey’s gone down for a nap, or Josh is minding him, and I get to prioritise ME! Moving my body in any shape or form, whether it’s a yoga flow or a sweaty strength session is one of my favourite ways to show myself love.

5. Avoid Comparisons

Try shifting your mindset to celebrate differences and appreciate uniqueness instead of comparing and trying to be the same as someone else. I’ve seen in the past when I’ve been too focused on acting or looking like someone else, my true self gets lost, and with that, I also lose my confidence. Try to steer clear of anyone that triggers any self-doubt or negative comparison – that goes for in person and online – remember that you are in control of what you see on your social media feed! Surround yourself with people who embrace uniqueness, celebrate you as you are and inspire you to be the best version of you.

6. Draw

Putting pencils or pens to paper and drawing cartoons has been something that has brought me a lot of joy since I was a kid. But the thing I love the most about it is I always lose track of time once I start, and it takes me away from my phone!

Making time for yourself should be a non negotiable. You cannot pour from an empty cup, so make sure you’re making time for the things that make you fill your cup back up to the brim! 

 

Steph Claire Smith