5/What Self-Love Really Means: An Invitation to Reflect

We often hear about self-love in terms of rituals—taking a bath, meditating, journaling, or scheduling “me-time.” These things feel nurturing, and they are important—but they only scratch the surface of what self-love truly asks of us.
I recently spent some time at a retreat in Peru. In that space of stillness, I began to notice patterns I had carried for years—ways I unconsciously sought wholeness outside myself, hoping others would complete me. It made me ask: how often do we confuse self-care with self-love?
Self-love isn’t just what we do for ourselves in rituals. It’s about how we relate to ourselves. Can we be content with who we are, without constantly seeking validation or improvement? Can we see ourselves as already whole, choosing to share our wholeness with others rather than expecting them to complete us?
On a psychological level, self-love asks us to look closely at our sense of worth. Many of us feel depleted because we unconsciously doubt our value, act to please others, or measure ourselves against external expectations. Asking ourselves questions like “Am I enough as I am?” or “Are my actions aligned with my truth?” can reveal so much. This is not abstract thinking—these questions ground us in reality. Change only happens when we apply what we learn in our daily life. Retreats, meditation, or therapy without integration may feel comforting, but they won’t lead to lasting transformation.
Energetically, self-love is about claiming your space, your energy, and your authenticity. It’s about noticing what your body, mind, and soul need—and honouring that, even when it feels uncomfortable. It can feel scary, even selfish at first, but the more aligned we are with ourselves, the more fully we can show up for others. It allows us to give without depletion, to set boundaries without guilt, and to engage with the world from a place of presence and power.
Practically, self-love can show up as forgiving ourselves, releasing shame, setting boundaries, honouring our needs, and accepting ourselves fully. It’s about asking: Where do I seek wholeness outside myself? How do my actions reflect my own value? What patterns am I ready to release?
Self-love is not a destination. It is a practice, a way of being. It’s about staying with yourself fully, embracing your wholeness, and discovering the freedom that comes from choosing yourself in every moment. It doesn’t mean rejecting responsibilities or making abrupt changes. It means tuning in to your own needs and expressing them consciously, even in small ways.
If this resonates, know that you don’t have to explore it alone. I work with people of all ages, online and in person, offering an integrative, holistic approach—blending psychotherapy, somatic work, meditation, and practical exercises—to support you in cultivating authentic self-love and reconnecting with your inner wholeness.
If you feel ready to explore deeper, authentic self-love, learn more about working with me here.
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6/Sitting With Your Emotions: You’re the Medicine

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4/A little story on Slowing down & aligning deeply