The importance of self-love on Valentine’s Day and beyond
Experts emphasize why prioritizing self-care, healthy boundaries, and self-acceptance is essential for overall well-being.
ATLANTA (CNN)- Valentine’s Day is often associated with candy, cards, balloons and stuffed animals, but experts say it’s also an opportunity to prioritize self-love.
Jody Baumstein, a licensed therapist with Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta’s Strong4Life program, said many people forget to extend the same love they show to others to themselves.
“But do we give that same love to ourselves?” Baumstein said. “A lot of times, the answer is no.”
Prioritizing Self-Care
Baumstein said self-care is an important first step toward self-love. It can be as simple as taking a long shower, spending a few quiet moments alone, going for a walk or spending time with friends.
“What we’re saying is that we matter, and that staying in balance and staying in tune with what we feel and what we need is really important,” Baumstein said. “Not just now, but for the long term as well.”
Setting Healthy Boundaries
In addition to self-care, Baumstein emphasized the importance of setting healthy boundaries. She said it is OK to walk away from overwhelming situations.
Practicing self-compassion is also key. She encouraged people to be patient with themselves and to engage in positive self-talk.
“Telling yourself things you’d tell someone else you love can make a difference,” she said.
Baumstein also highlighted how important it is for children to see adults practicing self-love.
“If we make a mistake and we fall apart, and we’re super critical and really, really harsh, they’re going to learn to do that exact same thing,” she said. “So we want to use these moments as opportunities to show them we’re all imperfect.”
Embracing Self-Acceptance
Baumstein said self-acceptance can help boost mood and self-esteem.
“Yes, I can continue to grow and evolve, and there are things I can do to better myself, but I’m enough today,” she said. “I love myself as I am today. I don’t need to be different.”
In an era of social media, Baumstein said people tend to focus on not being “good enough.” That’s why she encourages parents and children to have regular conversations about what they love about themselves and to make self-love a priority.
