How to Practice Self-Love

Self-love isn’t selfish, but a matter of survival to give yourself the respect and attention you deserve as you journey toward lasting sobriety. 

In fact, building (or improving upon) a love relationship with yourself will help you make better decisions, pick better partners and friends and better cope with the ups and downs of your new sober life. 

A few relatively simple activities can help ensure that you’re kind to yourself – mind, body and spirit. Start by giving a few of these self-love activities a whirl this Valentine’s Day:

• Wake up with love. Instead of grabbing your smartphone, grab a piece of paper and write yourself a little love note. Remind yourself why you are so deserving of the great day you are bound to have today. 
• Make time to meditate. If this isn’t already part of your daily practice, you may consider giving it a try. Start with five minutes of quiet meditation and follow it up with five minutes of writing in a journal to document your experience.
• Put a stop to negative thinking. Grab an elastic band and put it on your right wrist. If you criticize yourself today, move it to your left as a reminder to put an end to any negative self-talk. 
• Enjoy little pleasures. Go for a brisk walk or jog, cook up a healthful breakfast, take an extra long shower, sit with a crossword puzzle, meet a friend for coffee, splurge on a movie – do something today that awakens your body and mind. 

Your Path to Better Mental Health

The Haven at Pismo can help you achieve inner harmony while building the skills to maintain it over the long term. Our dual diagnosis programs are recommended for those experiencing the doubly damaging effects of addiction and mental illness. To connect with a caring and understanding admissions counselor, call today: 805-202-3440.