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What Is Self-Love?
In a world where love is often externalised, it is crucial to remember the most vital relationship we have is the one with ourselves.
The term ‘self-love’ may be popular, but its true value can be easily overlooked. Yet, self-love is not a passing trend or a buzzword. It is the bedrock of our emotional well-being, the very basis on which all our other relationships are built.
At its core, self-love is about recognising our own value and worth, independent of external validation. It is about acknowledging our strengths, accepting our flaws, and unapologetically embracing our authentic selves.
One of the most profound truths about self-love is that no one can love us more than we love ourselves. External validation may provide temporary gratification, but true fulfilment can only come from within. When we learn to love ourselves wholeheartedly, we no longer seek validation or approval from others. Instead, we become self-reliant, capable of nurturing our happiness and well-being.
How Is Self-Love Different from Selfishness?
Contrary to popular belief, self-love is not selfish or narcissistic. It is a fundamental act of self-care and compassion that allows us to lead fulfilling lives and cultivate meaningful connections with others.
Self-love is not just a passive state of being. It is an ongoing practice that requires commitment and effort. It means prioritising our needs, setting boundaries, and treating ourselves with kindness and compassion, even in the face of adversity. It means acknowledging our worthiness of love and respect, regardless of our perceived shortcomings or past mistakes.
Perhaps the most powerful analogy for self-love is that of a cup. Just as we cannot pour from an empty cup, we cannot expect to give love or receive it fully if we have not filled our cup first. Self-love is about replenishing our own reserves and nurturing our inner light so that we can shine brightly and illuminate the world around us.
How Do We Practise Self-Love?
In a society that often glorifies self-sacrifice and martyrdom, practising self-love can feel revolutionary. It requires us to challenge societal norms and cultural conditioning that equate self-worth with productivity or external achievements. It is about reclaiming our inherent value as human beings, separate from our roles or identities.
Self-love is not always easy, especially in a world that constantly bombards us with messages of inadequacy and comparison. But even amidst the chaos and noise, we can carve out moments of self-care and self-compassion. Whether it is through meditation, journaling, or simply taking a walk in nature, we can find small ways to nurture our souls and replenish our spirits.
Ultimately, self-love is not a luxury; it is a necessity. It is the key to unlocking our full potential, living authentically, and fostering profound, meaningful connections with others.
So, let us make a commitment to ourselves—to recognise our worth, prioritise our well-being, and embrace the life-changing potential of self-love. After all, the world becomes a more vibrant, more beautiful place when we learn to love ourselves first.
Other related articles that you may like:
Mindfulness: What Is It and How to Practise It?
Self-Care Strategies for Women: The Importance of Prioritising Yourself
Make an Appointment at Pantai Hospitals
Make mental health a priority and take charge of your health. Begin your self-love journey today and watch as it transforms your life.
At Pantai Hospitals, we offer a wide range of health screening programs catered to each individual, depending on their health status and needs. The team of healthcare professionals are here to assist and recommend or tailor a screening package to suit your age, gender, family, and medical history. For appointments, please contact the Health Screening Centre at your nearest Pantai Hospital.
Pantai Hospitals have been accredited by the Malaysian Society for Quality in Health (MSQH) for its commitment to patient safety and service quality.
This article is written by Dr. Revathi Naidu.
