January 23, 2025

How self-love impacts your period health

Hi lovely,

When was the last time you truly paused and asked yourself, Am I being kind to me? In the hustle and bustle of daily life, we often give so much to others that we forget to extend the same compassion to ourselves.

But here’s the truth: being kind to yourself isn’t selfish—it’s essential. It’s the foundation of self-love, and when we practice it, everything else in life feels a little easier, calmer, and more balanced.

So, what does it actually mean to be kind to yourself? Let’s dive in.

What Is Self-Love, Really?

Self-love is more than bubble baths, candles, or treating yourself to a chocolate bar (though those are great too!). At its core, self-love is about:

Recognising your worth and treating yourself with respect.
Prioritising your well-being—mentally, emotionally, and physically.
Setting boundaries and saying no when you need to.
Being patient with yourself during tough times.

It’s a practice, not a one-time thing. And just like any relationship, the relationship you have with yourself requires effort and nurturing.

The Difference Between Self-Love and Self-Criticism

Too often, we’re our own worst critics. We replay mistakes, dwell on what we didn’t accomplish, or compare ourselves to others. But here’s a gentle reminder: kindness starts with silencing that inner critic and replacing it with compassion.

Ask yourself: Would you talk to a friend the way you talk to yourself? If not, it’s time to shift the narrative.

How to Be Kind to Yourself: Practical Tips

Here are simple, actionable ways to bring more self-love into your daily life:

1. Speak Kindly to Yourself

The words you use matter. Replace self-criticism with encouraging affirmations.

Try this: Instead of saying, “I’m so bad at this,” say, “I’m learning, and that’s okay.”

2. Rest Without Guilt

Rest isn’t laziness - it’s a vital part of being human. Whether it’s taking a nap, enjoying a slow morning, or saying no to plans, give yourself permission to recharge.

3. Nourish Your Body

What you eat and drink can significantly impact how you feel. Choose foods that fuel your body and make you feel good—not just physically but mentally too.

4. Celebrate Small Wins

You don’t need to wait for major milestones to celebrate yourself. Did you complete a task? Get through a challenging day? That’s worth acknowledging.

5. Embrace “Me Time”

Make time for activities that light you up—whether it’s journaling, walking, baking, or enjoying a quiet moment with a good book.

6. Set Boundaries

Being kind to yourself also means protecting your energy. It’s okay to say no to things that don’t serve you.

7. Forgive Yourself

We all make mistakes. Instead of holding onto guilt or regret, acknowledge it, learn from it, and let it go.

What Self-Love Isn’t

It’s important to note that self-love isn’t about being perfect or ignoring your responsibilities. It’s not about selfishness or placing yourself above others. Instead, it’s about recognising that you matter too—and making choices that support your well-being.