This Month, Love Yourself

February and Valentine’s Day are often associated with couples, romantic relationships, flowers and candy shaped hearts. This year, we’re choosing to look at it a little differently. Instead of focusing on receiving love from others, we’re going to focus on loving ourselves. 

In yoga, there are principals that we follow called Yamas (restraints) and Niyamas (observances), which relate directly to how you behave outwardly in the world. Incorporating these principals into your life can have a profound effect on your yoga practice and your peace of mind. This month, we’re focusing on the Niyama called Santosha. 

Santosha means to look to yourself and your own innate goodness for happiness, because that is the only place you’ll truly find it. It also means being present. Rather than wishing for things to be different in your life, accept and appreciate the reality of what is. It’s choosing to be happy now. 

Here’s a couple of tips to help you cultivate Santosha:

• Practice gratitude. Notice the moments you are happy (no matter how small!), and write them down in a gratitude journal.

• Be your own biggest fan. Positive affirmations really work! Leave yourself love notes and positive reminders.

• Repeat this mantra: “I have enough. I am enough.” 

Give it a try and send yourself some love this February!