Valentine’s Day is upon us, and like clockwork, you’re about to be bombarded with messages about self-love and self-care. If you haven’t already seen a million Instagram posts telling you to take a bubble bath and buy yourself chocolates, consider yourself lucky. But let’s be real: self-love is more than just slapping on a face mask and calling it a day. For the witchy woman who walks between worlds, self-love is a ritual, a practice, and—dare I say it—a magical revolution.
So today, we’re diving deep into self-love and self-care, unraveling their differences and discovering how to infuse a little extra magic into your daily life. Because, my Enchanted Sister, you deserve to be your own greatest love story.
Self-Love vs. Self-Care: The Nuanced Dance
These two terms get tossed around like interchangeable sparkles in a cauldron, but they each carry their own unique energy. Self-care is the foundation, the physical and emotional habits that keep you from burning out when life throws its inevitable chaos your way. It’s the maintenance work—like setting boundaries, drinking water, and taking a nap before you hex someone.
Self-love, on the other hand, is a constant, sacred act. It’s how you speak to yourself, how you honor your worth, and how you hold yourself in the highest regard. It’s looking in the mirror and seeing a goddess rather than a to-do list of flaws. And here’s the thing—self-love isn’t just about being kind to yourself. It’s about reverence.
One of my favorite definitions of self-love is an appreciation of one’s own worth or virtue. And let’s be honest—how often do you really appreciate yourself? How often do you catch yourself thinking, I’m such an idiot when you make a mistake? If your best friend was spiraling, you wouldn’t tell her she’s garbage. You’d lift her up, remind her of her power, and tell her she’s worthy.
So, why don’t we do that for ourselves?
The Mirror Ritual: Seeing Yourself as Sacred
One of the simplest yet most powerful self-love rituals is using a mirror. Every morning (or night, or whenever you catch a glimpse of yourself), take a moment to speak kindly to yourself. Here’s how to turn this into a full-blown magical practice:
1. Stand in front of your mirror. Make eye contact with yourself. Hold it. Don’t look away.
2. Place a hand over your heart. Breathe. Feel your own presence.
3. Speak words of love and power. Say something kind. It doesn’t have to be grand. Try:
- I see you.
- You are worthy.
- You are magic incarnate.
- Damn, you’re glowing today.
This might feel weird at first, but remember—you are your own best friend. Treat yourself like the queen you are.
The Art of Holding Yourself in High Regard
Self-love isn’t just about feeling good; it’s about treating yourself like the divine being you are. Here’s how to embody that:
1. Eat with intention. Slow down. Taste your food. Nourish your body like it’s a sacred temple (because it is).
2. Dress like the leader of your own coven. Whether it’s silk, leather, or a T-shirt that makes you feel powerful—wear it like armor.
3. Clear out the clutter. Physically and mentally. Negative thoughts? Banish them. Toxic habits? Release them. Make space for love.
4. Apologize to yourself. When you catch yourself speaking harshly, stop. Say, I’m sorry. That was unkind. Let’s try again. This rewires your brain to default to kindness.
Summon Your Allies: Calling in Past, Present, and Future You
In our Expedition to Soul Retreat, we practice assembling our allies—calling in different versions of ourselves for guidance. You can do this too. Visualize:
- Your childhood self—innocent, wild, and full of wonder.
- Your teenage self—bold, emotional, and yearning.
- Your present self—the version reading this now, seeking expansion.
- Your future self—the wise, glowing being you are becoming.
Imagine them standing with you in a circle, hands clasped. Let them remind you of your worth, your resilience, your magic. They are you. You are them. And together, you are unstoppable.
The Freya Connection: Love, War, and Self-Worth
If you want some mythological backing for your self-love journey, look no further than Freya, the Norse goddess of love and war. Yes, she’s all about passion and beauty, but she’s also a warrior, a queen, and the kind of energy you need when you’re battling self-doubt.
Self-love can feel like war sometimes. The old narratives try to creep back in—the ones that say you’re not good enough, not accomplished enough, not something enough. Freya teaches us to put those thoughts to rest. To fight for our own worthiness. To own our magic without apology.
So next time you catch yourself falling into old patterns of self-loathing, channel your inner Freya. Stand up straighter. Speak your worth. And if necessary, metaphorically (or literally) don a crown.
Rituals for a Self-Love Valentine’s Day
This Valentine’s Day, ditch the obligatory candy hearts and celebrate yourself with these self-love rituals:
1. Candle Magick: Light a pink or red candle, infuse it with love, and let the flame remind you of your own inner fire.
2. Self-Love Jar Spell: Fill a jar with affirmations, dried rose petals, and crystals that make you feel powerful. Shake it up whenever you need a boost.
3. Bath Ritual: Infuse your bath with herbs, essential oils, and salts. Soak in your own magic.
4. Write a Love Letter to Yourself: Pour your heart onto paper. Tell yourself all the things you wish someone else would say.
Final Thoughts: Make Every Day a Love Spell
Self-love isn’t a trend. It’s a practice, a lifestyle, a spell you cast every single day. It’s in the way you speak to yourself, the way you care for your body, and the way you show up in the world with unapologetic magic.
So, my dear Enchanted Sister, as Valentine’s Day rolls in, make yourself the main event. Love yourself fiercely, hold yourself in high regard, and remember—you are the most powerful love story you will ever know.
Stay magic, and stay in love with yourself.
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