Self-love may sometimes resonate as hip buzzword with the like of “gluten-free” and “Pilates,” but I promise, this in an incredibly significant element for maintaining happiness and the harmonious balance of physical and mental well-being. Self-love is not a marker of sensitivity or confined to femininity. Men can practice self-care and self-love as well. Here are a few tenets to keep in mind while practicing self-love.

See That What You See Isn't What You Really See

Metaphorically step out of your shoes and position yourself in the eyes of someone else. Would you ever tell someone else “you’re fat” or “you’re not smart enough?" How about "you need to do something about your nose” or “you may as well drop out now?” If you answered no, then congratulations; you’re a kind person, at least to others. But if you have ever found yourself thinking these things out loud or saying them to yourself, then boo, you’re a jerk to yourself. We are our greatest critics, and the moment when we realize that the amount of pressure and ridicule we face is actually stemming from within us, by us, and to us is the moment we can redirect it and change.

Your Body is A Fortress, So Guard It

Whether you’re an atheist, Christian, Muslim, Jewish, or a member of the Church of the Flying Spaghetti Monster, you more than likely hold something tangible or physical that resonates with a deeply personal and sometimes spiritual significance to you. Why don’t we see our body and mind in that same light? Let’s treat our body and brain as a garden, feeding it only things that will nourish it. By cutting out the weeds in our life, we can learn to better sustain a healthier mindset and perception of ourselves.

There's No One Else Quite Like You

We as humans have an insatiable need to compare ourselves to others. The moment we meet someone, we lock eyes and analyze and observe their exterior complex better than a TSA agent. You as an individual have so much to offer, and when you compare your success or physical appearance to someone else, you limit the real perception of what makes you yourself. How can you see what’s incredible about yourself when you don’t think it's as incredible as someone else’s success? Inspiration shouldn't deviate to idolization. The latter is a distortion of perception and reality. Maintain a humble appreciation for others, but don’t tear down your potential in the process.

Recognize Those Who Have Shaped You And Your Path

As amazing and strong-willed we truly are, we can't credit our current life path all to ourselves. There are a number of individuals by good or bad terms that have affected our life paths and shaped its course, whether we like it or not. Whether it was the 7^th grade bullies whopushed you to the deepest ends of your limits or your loved one who always stood beside you with an unwavering sense of support, there are humans and forces that shape the direction of your life path, and it is essential to recognize these characters relative to you and your dreams, aspirations, and goals.

Dump those who are parasitic and only breed toxicity in your life. To maintain harmony in your relationships requires work, and to blame others for misfortunes in your life is not fair if you do nothing about it. Weeding out the ill and nurturing the positive is key to controlling who gets to join you in your life journey. As cliché as it sounds, our relationships with others say a lot about our relationships with ourselves.

And finally, appreciate those who have always displayed unconditional love to you, not only in the tough times, but in the day-to-day routines. A simple call, text, or even thank you note will fill someone with bliss and undoubtedly show them that you appreciate their efforts and their existence in your life.