Ways to Shower Yourself with Love and Acceptance: A Self-Care Guide
In our busy lives, taking time for self-care isn't just a luxury—it's essential for our wellbeing. As someone who has spent two decades helping women navigate life's transitions, I've seen how transformative simple acts of self-love can be. Here are some heartfelt ways to shower yourself with love and acceptance when you need it most.
Give Yourself Permission to Have a Good Cry
There's something profoundly healing about letting tears flow freely. The ancient Greeks talked about catharsis for a reason—there's a transformative power in emotional release.
When emotions build up, try watching a favorite tear-jerker movie. Whether it's "Finding Neverland," "The Notebook," or whatever film reliably opens your emotional floodgates, embracing those tears can be incredibly freeing.
Why is this an act of self-love? Because holding in emotions takes tremendous energy. When you allow yourself to cry, you're essentially telling yourself, "Your feelings matter, and they deserve to be expressed." It's one of the most authentic ways to honor your emotional needs.
Embrace Restorative Yoga
I used to affectionately call it "Gramma Yoga"—the kind my now-deceased, Yoda-like granny could do well into her late 90s. Restorative yoga isn't about impressive poses or flexibility. It's about gentle movements and supported postures that allow your nervous system to fully relax.
In a restorative practice, you might hold just a handful of poses for 5-10 minutes each, supported by props like bolsters, blankets, and blocks. This practice signals to your body that it's safe to let go of tension and enter a healing state.
The beauty of restorative yoga is its accessibility—virtually anyone can practice it, regardless of age or physical condition. It's a tender way to care for your body and mind simultaneously.
Spend Time with an Old Friend
There's something uniquely comforting about being with someone who knew you when you were a "doofus" and did really stupid things—hopefully undocumented by technology. Ah, the 1990s—what a decade!
Old friends hold our history. They remember versions of ourselves we may have forgotten. They can remind us of our resilience, our growth, and our core essence that remains unchanged despite life's twists and turns.
These connections ground us in who we truly are, beyond current roles and responsibilities. When an old friend still loves you despite knowing your most embarrassing moments, it's a powerful reminder to extend that same grace to yourself.
Immerse Yourself in Nature
Few things reset our perspective like time spent in natural settings. Whether it's standing under trees, sitting by a river, or walking along the ocean's edge—nature has a remarkable ability to lower cortisol levels and remind us of what truly matters.
The Japanese practice of "forest bathing" (shinrin-yoku) has been scientifically proven to reduce stress hormones, lower blood pressure, and improve immune function. But beyond the physiological benefits, nature offers a precious chance to step away from our human-centered concerns and connect with something larger than ourselves.
Even just 20 minutes of mindful time outdoors can shift your entire outlook. Notice the textures, sounds, and rhythms around you. Feel your place within the natural world. This connection is both humbling and empowering.
Find Yourself a Good Healer
While I serve as that person for many of my clients, I also have my own healer who untangles my energy and keeps me vibrant. Making those appointments every other week is non-negotiable for me. God bless that woman!
A good healer—whether an acupuncturist, massage therapist, energy worker, or therapist—can offer perspective and support that's hard to generate on your own. They create a sacred space where you can be fully seen and supported.
Finding the right healing practitioner is a profound act of self-care. It says: "I am worth this investment. My wellbeing matters." When you prioritize these appointments, you're making a commitment to your own wholeness.
Final Thoughts
Self-love isn't always about bubble baths and chocolate (though those can be lovely!). Sometimes, the most powerful expressions of self-compassion involve giving yourself permission to feel deeply, move gently, connect authentically, breathe freely, and receive support openly.
Remember that showing yourself love and acceptance isn't selfish—it's necessary. When we nurture ourselves, we have so much more to give to those around us. In a world that often pushes us toward constant productivity and performance, these practices of tenderness and presence can be revolutionary acts of self-preservation.
What small act of love can you offer yourself today? Whatever you choose, approach it not as another item on your to-do list, but as a gentle reminder that you are worthy of care—exactly as you are, right now.
