Self Love: Where Do We Begin?

By Shannon Fife

Even though yoga has been considered a practice based on “self-awareness, self-love, and freedom from materialistic things”, I often ponder what does that really mean. In my quest to truly incorporate these aspects into my practice, I needed to reflect and consider each aspect. Multiple dictionaries agree that “self-love” must incorporate an appreciation of your own virtues, worth and happiness. All suggest that these are basic human necessities but one must remain vigilant not to sacrifice other’s self-worth as this could be perceived as vanity, conceitedness or egotism. Does that seem like a fine line or is it?

I think that is why we are called to include “self-awareness”. Having a sense of “self-awareness” or being “self-aware” gives us the opportunity to define that line. Thank you Tram Nguyen as your comments aptly speak to the importance. As you stated, “You have to be self aware and recognize your biases and prejudices because these may cause you to think subjectively” (np). That subjectivity does not require us to dive deep or challenge us to look at our character that may lead us to and from self- awareness. I believe the talk on bias and judgement warrants its own article but I will say, if we are to move forward with self- love, we must at least scratch the surface to these often hidden pieces of ourselves. Judgement is not negative. In fact, it is often a necessity. It is the process of forming an opinion through a balanced evaluation of the information. Bias, on the other hand, is unreasoned judgement that we place on ourselves and others which we know can lead to prejudice. My messaging to people when they ask is to be kind; to ourselves and others. Simply saying three nice things about someone else and three nice things about ourselves each day can change the brain. So is that the beginning of this “self-love” journey?

 Why not? Let’s start simple. Challenge yourself to say three kind things about yourself at least a few times a week and then maybe, you will have opened enough space within your brain to begin the journey of “self-love”.

 If you are looking for more tips about “self-love”, message us. We would love to help you on your journey!

References:

“Cambridge Dictionary: English Dictionary, Translations & Thesaurus.” Cambridge Dictionary | English Dictionary, Translations & Thesaurus, Cambridge University Press, 2 Jan. 2020, dictionary.cambridge.org/.

Joshi, Puravi. “Do You Really Know the True Meaning of Yoga? Thoughts from a British Indian Yogi.” Yoga Journal, Yoga Journal University, 19 July 2018, www.yogajournal.com/yoga-101/the-true-meaning-of-yoga-thoughts-from-a-british-indian-yogi.

“Merriam-Webster Dictionary: English Dictionary, Translation & Thesaurus.” Jan. 2021, Retrieved from: https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/self-love