The Differences Between Self-Love and Self-Care
The terms “self-love” and “self-care” have been buzzing around a lot over the last few years that have correlated with the increase in the conversation surrounding mental health and wellness. These two terms sound very similar and like they can be used interchangeably, but there do happen to be a number of differences that exist between them. Some may believe or say that it’s not possible to partake in self-care if you do not have an unwavering sense of self-love first, but that is not necessarily the case.
Self-Love vs Self-Care
When you imagine what it means to have self-love and to participate in self-care habits, what pops into your mind? These can both be such individualized and personal matters, because one person’s idea of loving and caring for themselves might be enormously different than someone else’s. Let’s take a closer look at each of these matters:
Self-Love
When it comes to practicing self-love, it is anything but selfish. Especially in today’s world, where we are so often seeking external validation or even receiving unwarranted input, it’s imperative to shift our focus to our own selves and what fulfills us and leaves us with a sensation of comfort and contentedness. Self-love is about diving deep into our inner world that only we can truly know, accepting the parts that we may dislike, and choosing to love and accept those aspects regardless. You know that at the end of the day, you are doing your best, have positive intentions, and are worthy of infinite love.
Self-Care
Ensuring that we take ample time each week to do the things that we enjoy and fill our cups is one of the most sure-fire and direct ways to show up for ourselves and to present ourselves with the love we deserve. Self-care is unique to each person and looks different to everyone you ask. It can be something as simple as setting aside time to read a book at the end of the day or something more exciting like planning adventurous travels if that’s what makes you feel the happiest. Self-care is the little stuff we partake in each day to remind us that we value and appreciate ourselves.
Self-love and self-care are separate but equally important things, and some specific acts can be deemed as both – such as taking care of your physical health through eating well and moving your body each day. Self-care is an act of self-love, they go hand-in-hand with one another and form a beautiful symbiotic relationship.
