Love Yourself, Love Your Body This Valentine’s Day
“Love yourself—accept yourself—forgive yourself—and be good to yourself, because without you the rest of us are without a source of many wonderful things.” ~ Leo F. Buscaglia Valentines Day is this Sunday and for those who struggle with an eating disorder, it can be an extremely difficult day to get through. Eating disorders are borne out of a number of factors, but one of the prevailing factors is a negative body image and poor self-esteem. The anxiety and selfloathing that come along with an eating disorder are feelings especially difficult to deal with on this day dedicated to love. But Valentines Day doesn’t have to be this way; in fact, it should be celebrated.
Overcoming Your Eating Disorder Whether or not you’re in a relationship or struggling with an eating disorder, choose to make this day more about self-love than romantic love and honor, nurture and treat yourself. Here are some great ways to fill this Valentine’s Day with self-love and affection.
Treat Yourself Give yourself a manicure or pedicure, go get that facial or massage you’ve been wanting, stay in bed and read a great book all day, watch that movie you’ve been wanting to see, or cook/bake yourself something you love. Take care of yourself like you would a loved one. Enjoying “quality time” on your own is something everyone can benefit from doing and it will help you learn to love and appreciate yourself.
Do Volunteer Work Volunteering is a great way to be around people and to help you feel good about yourself. So what better day to volunteer than Valentine’s Day? Help out at a local food shelter, or donate clothing, furniture or other possessions to those in need. Are you a member of a church, synagogue or other religious organization? Do you love animals? Children? Elders? Nature? There are so many ways you can help your community and hopefully it can even be something you feel passionate about. One of the best ways to feel more love and gratitude is to give love to others.