With February portrayed as the season of love, there is much commercial build up towards Valentine’s Day, or for Galentine’s Day as the famous Parks and Recreation coined.
However, this Valentine’s Day we are celebrating self-love – the act of putting your own well-being and happiness first. Whilst we all enjoy indulging in self-care rituals, whether that’s switching off at the end of a long day and taking a bubble bath or spending time enjoying our favourite pastimes, self-love goes way beyond this. How we feel about ourselves from within is what really matters and will radiate outwards.
- Start your day on a positive note
We’re all guilty of immediately reaching for our phones in the morning, try replacing this with taking a few moments for yourself. Think about what you have planned for the day, what you’d like to achieve and your intentions. This can be as simple as ‘Today I choose happiness.’ This will alter your mindset for the day and help you get into the right headspace.
You could also use your mornings to go for a walk or exercise first thing, this is a great way to start the day. Not only will you be releasing endorphins, but the fresh air can help clear your mind and get you ready for a fresh day.
- Take a social media break
Social media can be often all consuming with constant updates from either those we know in real life, or aspirational influencers or celebrities we may follow. It can be hard not to compare your life to other people on social media however, it is important to remember that we are being shown their highlights.
By taking a social media break, whether for a few days or weeks, can provide an opportunity to recharge and focus on yourself without comparison.
- Learn to say no
While this may not be a problem during lockdown, the constant hustle and bustle of life can be exhausting especially for those who have a busy social schedule. However, it’s OK to give yourself permission to rest and say no to events you may not wish to attend.
Whether this means staying at home and watching your favourite film or choosing an alternative evening out, there is no need to feel guilty for saying no.
- Incorporate a healthier diet into your lifestyle
The phrase ‘You Are What You Eat’ can be very apt when considering the types of food we consume in relation to how they make us feel. While we all may enjoy takeaways and ‘junk food’, they can often leave us feeling sluggish and tired. By incorporating a superfood or healthier alternatives into your diet, or ensuring you are having key vitamins such as Iron, Vitamin B-12 or Vitamin D, will help your body feel healthier from the inside out.
- Take Alone Time
Taking time out to enjoy by yourself is key in the practice of self-love. This is an opportunity to be completely selfish and focus on what you’d like to do with your time. Whether you are seeking relaxation or looking for a targeted self-care treatment, e.g. a massage, facial etc, there are plenty of options to discover at The Spa at Bedford Lodge.
The perfect sanctuary for those looking for an escape from everyday life, we have indulgent list of specialist treatments including my favourite Lavender Floatation, ESPA facials and Balinese hot stone massages for deep relaxation.
While the spa might not be currently open due to the current lockdown, you can book ahead or treat yourself or a loved one to a voucher available to redeem once we have reopened.
Until next time,
Love,
Rebecca x