Self-love isn’t an option, it’s a requirement; especially after a relationship with a narcissist.
This is when we’re at an all-time low, after having our energy completely drained. It’s as though someone has siphoned the fuel out of our gas tank.
We can feel as though we’re barely functioning.
And the lesson here is: It’s time to finally create the self-love habits that we’ve been neglecting.
This isn’t an egotistical love, but a love that sustains us. I often say:
“Self-love isn’t arrogant. It’s a survival tool to get through life in one piece.”
When we nurture ourselves, it makes us so much more effective as humans.
We operate better.
It took me awhile to learn this one.
As an empath and helper, I wanted to help family, friends, and fur babies first. Then I’d end up running on empty.
I noticed the subtle nuances of this when I’d feed my animals first.
Then the realization of: “Wait. I need to feed ME first so I can properly take care of them.”
Then I had to work at changing my habits. It was a constant reminder of self-care.
It’s not selfish. It’s not conceited. It’s simply necessary to keep ourselves healthy and sticking around in this life for awhile.
So, how do we do it?
Start off with simple things like:
· Do I need rest?
· Do I need to go to the bathroom and am I forcing myself to wait?
· Am I allowing myself to eat something when I’m hungry, OR am I eating because I’m tired or stressed?
Start small, and then you can remember to:
· Book that hair appointment.
· Get that massage you’ve thought about.
· Go get a facial or your nails done.
This is how we discover balance. This is how we function in a happy and healthy way.
And everyone around us benefits from it.
That’s the beauty of it, my beautiful friend. It’s not only okay to care of YOU, it’s necessary for your survival.
And, this isn’t something we just do on occasion. It’s a daily practice.
In fact, we need to make it a habit. Because the habit of neglecting ourselves is something we need to break.
When let go of the old habits that no longer serve us and bring in the new ones, it puts a smile on our face, and that positively impacts others as well.
And then we’re feeling better in not time at all, and on every level of our being. It’s a powerful and beautiful thing.
PS: Ready to heal, love yourself and get your life on track after a narcissist? You’re invited to join us in the group: Women Healing After A Narcissist Facebook group.
