Self Love This Valentines

When Rae and I were discussing what we would write our first blog post about we thought about many topics! We thought outside the box, we thought back in the box and we even went around the corner. We finally came to the agreement that we would kick off our monthly blog with ‘Self Love’, a theme which we are still exploring in our own lives. Funny enough it is one of the main reasons we decided to persevere in the progressive movement of ‘Clits, Tits & Other Bits’. I will be exploring my own view on Valentine’s Day and what the season allows for us to explore our own lives.

CRINGE, the feeling engulfed me when I realised that cupid will be promoting another mass consumer focused campaign in our capitalist society. When I reveal my stance people say ‘‘I bet you are single’. To people’s surprise - I am in a relationship and have been for the last 8 years! I still find this time of the year unbearable. I often think that I am a miserable cow for not being so fussed about the season and then I have opposing thoughts.

Through my own self love journey and discovering what female wellness is which I feel started during the pandemic, I decided that I would be unapologetically myself and that includes not being scared of saying things that go against the grain. We spend so much time trying to fit in and I do not care that I do not like Valentine's Day. I LOVE my family, friends and partner everyday of the year and will not feel forced to be extra nice on the 14th. Don't get me wrong - I love being a princess. I have enjoyed Valentines many times before including the dinners, flowers and even raunchy lingerie but I have recurring thoughts every year. Why don’t we show appreciation throughout the year? Why is this season exclusive for people dating/in relationships? Why are people not taking this time to be nice to themselves?

This is why I am writing this blog post to share that this may be an opinion shared by others but if it was not - it would still be okay. I think that Valentine's Day is a time and period that we should be nicer to ourselves and others. I have thought of a few things that you could do this month that may help you on your ‘Self Love’ voyage that you may be on or definitely on your way to starting:

Say 3 things you like about yourself: An exercise I started during lockdown. This is hard at first but when you persevere through the uncomfortability it is fantastic. Three things you say that are easy. In a world where it is so easy to criticise, show yourself some love. Remember that your smile is radiant and your nature to help others is a blessing. Trust me on this one try it!

Reach out: We all have that friend who we love from a distance but have forgotten to reach out. Pick your phone up and send a message or call. Don’t give me that “If they cared then they would call me”. Get off your high horse and call them, you will benefit from it and they will too! Share the love.

Treat yourself: I am guilty of doing this often but within reason we have bills to pay am I RIGHT. It doesn't have to be buying yourself something but it may be having that lay in on Saturday to fully rest. Give yourself a rest and go easy on yourself.

Well there you have it - our first ever blog post and you now know that I hate Valentines Day. Promoting love in your lives everyday is my main takeaway. Please let me know your thoughts - it would be so great to talk about it!

A mantra which helps me sometimes and may help you.

You are loved.

You are love.