Something amazing happens when we surrender and just love. We melt into another world, a realm of power already within us. The world changes when we change. The world softens when we soften. The world loves us when we choose to love the world.. Marianne Williamson
A day focused on love
Every February 14, the aisles fill with heart-shaped candy, pink and red teddy bears, and rose bouquets. Valentine's Day is a Hallmark holiday dedicated to showering people with love. It can also be a day of hardship, heartache, and loneliness. Valentine's Day stirs up a lot of emotions, whether you are in a relationship or not. For a day focused on love, it can cause a lot of pressure and unmet expectations.
Many people struggle with feeling worthy of love, especially those in recovery. Because drugs and alcohol damage relationships, this day can surface painful memories. Lingering guilt, shame, and depression often come with them. But we can change that narrative. We can love and show love beyond Valentine's Day.
Practice self-love
To pass love on to others, we first practice self-love. That can look small. Run yourself a warm bath after a long day. Light your favorite candle to set your day. Get yourself to a place that makes you feel taken care of. Those are easy moves you can put in your week.
Then there is the deeper inner work. One of the most monumental practices is reframing the words we use in daily conversation. Saying I love you when you look in the mirror. Speaking affirmations before you start your day. Journaling your thoughts before bed. Seeking therapy. Over time, that inner work helps you actually feel the love you keep telling yourself you deserve.
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Let your loved ones know you care
There is nothing wrong with showering your partner, children, or close friends with gifts on Valentine's Day. But do not let this be the only day of the year you let them know. You do not have to buy the most expensive gifts or the prettiest cards. The simple invitation to spend quality time with someone is often the gift. Sending a thoughtful text. Inviting them on a hike. Love should not feel forced. Celebrate love all month because you want to, not because the calendar says to.
Pass love on to a stranger
One of the beautiful things about passing love on is that it combats loneliness. When you give to others, it feels good. When you feel lonely or unworthy, try extending love outward. The more love we give, the more we have to draw from.
Like you, the person in line at the grocery store or running on the treadmill next to you is probably carrying their own weight. We never know what other people are walking through. A simple act of kindness can travel a long way. Buy the next person's coffee. Hand a stranger a small gift. Let them know they are worthy of love too.
Give yourself the gift of recovery
Practicing self-love goes beyond Valentine's Day. If you need addiction treatment, give yourself the gift of recovery. Call us at 713-904-4699 to learn more about our locations across Texas and our full continuum of care from medical detox through aftercare.
A new life in recovery may just be a phone call away.