Treat Yourself Kindly

Estimated reading time: 3 minutes

It has become increasingly common for us to indulge in negative self-talk. As a result, we are putting pressure on ourselves to live up to unrealistic expectations, leading to a decline in our mental health and well-being. It is, therefore, essential that we all start to treat ourselves kindly. So how can you begin to treat yourself kindly this february?

Research has shown that the more you practice self-kindness and self-compassion, the easier it becomes to make these habits a permanent part of your life. As defined by Dr Kristin Neff, self-compassion is simply the process of turning compassion inward. Below you will find some clear and effective ways of practising self-kindness and compassion while also adopting a growth mindset.

The benefits of self-kindness and self-compassion

Self-kindness and self-compassion have been proven to have a positive impact on both mental and emotional well-being. Incorporating these into your everyday life can help to reduce stress, anxiety and depression. While also increasing feelings of self-worth and self-esteem, which can increase your overall happiness.

Speak kindly to yourself

One of the key ways you can start to treat yourself kindly is to change the way you talk to yourself. Begin by replacing negative self-talk with positivity. If you encounter a child or a loved one engaging in negative self-talk, you will probably show them compassion. This is the same compassion you should be showing yourself.

You could even try reciting positive affirmations to yourself when you feel negative. By focusing on the things that you like about yourself, you will shift your mindset from one of self-criticism to one of self-acceptance.

Adopt a growth mindset

A ‘growth mindset’ is the belief that your abilities and potential can be developed. This mindset focuses on learning and improvement – growth – rather than perfection and achievement. Cultivating a growth mindset can help you become more resilient in the face of setbacks. As well as increase your motivation and confidence.

Practice gratitude and mindfulness

Another way to practice self-kindness is through gratitude and mindfulness. Take a few moments each day to reflect on what you are grateful for while focusing on the present moment. This will help you cultivate a positive outlook and promote feelings of happiness and contentment, for more information on why gratitude is so important, click here.

Take care of your physical health

It is important to take care of your physical health when practising self-kindness and compassion. This includes getting enough sleep, eating a well-balanced diet, limiting stress effects, and engaging in physical activity. Your mind and body are deeply connected, so to take care of one of them, you must take care of them both.

Allow yourself time for self-care

Lastly, it is crucial to make time for self-care activities. These activities should bring you both joy and a feeling of relaxation. This could be anything from taking a bubble bath to going for a walk in nature, as long as it is something that you enjoy and helps you recharge. By giving yourself time to relax and recharge, you’re showing yourself that you are worth taking care of; for more information on why self-care is so important, click here.

Self-kindness and self-compassion are essential for your mental and emotional well-being. By changing the way you talk to yourself, practising gratitude and mindfulness, taking care of your physical health and allowing time for self-care, you can start to treat yourself kindly this february and beyond.

Remember to watch for new self-care ideas and share any self-love rituals with us at @surrender_to_happiness. We always love finding new ways to practice self-care. If you want to introduce new rituals, click here, and if you would like to read about nurturing your well-being using an altar, click here. Finally, if you want something special, check out our self-love crystal grid kit.

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