Sunday June 22, 2025

When I embarked on my self love journey, it was tempting to just buy a bunch of “self care” products, make a bedtime routine, try some new affirmations and call it a day. But I’ve done that before…and to no avail. This time has to be different, I thought. My cancer diagnosis was further evidence that something had to give.

Fully convinced that my illness was influenced by my self-loathing, toxic beliefs, and diminished self worth, I knew that healing would need to begin in my mind, with my thoughts. Last week, I described how contemplation served as the avenue in which I began to explore what it might be like if I really loved myself. Contemplation has played a significant role in my inner work and healing so far and I think it’s often misunderstood as a spiritual path. When I mention a contemplative lifestyle, a vow of silence or life in a monastery may first come to mind. But you don’t have to be a wandering sadhu to contemplate!

When I decided that I wanted to love myself, becoming aware of all the thought patterns that did not align with self-love was the first step. Meditation, journaling, and contemplation are all ways to do this.

What sort of mindfulness practices do you practice?

Have you ever felt called to live a spiritually centered life?