By Jennifer Pearlman, MD CCCFP NCMP FAARM ABAARM
On this day of love- how about we turn tradition on its head to celebrate self-love. Romance, date nights and the adorning love of another are all wonderful, but it’s a time when self-esteem is hitting a deep dark low. A time that has us simultaneously selfie-obsessed while hopelessly in pursuit of the always out of reach acceptance of others. Thank social media for that. Thank a fast pace pop culture that covets what is new and hot but just as quickly will readily throw it aside for the next greatest with yesterday’s news. Little respect is paid to the tried and true virtues of enduring integrity. The invisible character traits that beautify the person of conscience. While we praise academic, business and social media success in quantifiable ways like grades, revenue and followers- how do we celebrate traits like kindness, respect, loyalty, and empathy? In the dark cold of winter- we pause year after year to say I love you to those who are near and dear. But perhaps this year we can pause to say I love you to that person that has carried you through the highs and lows, been there with you always and forever. You- all of you. Your warts, your shining glory, your joy and your sorrows. You are worth loving. You are worth a day- a day in a month. A day to self-reflect. To love yourself. To thank yourself. To remind yourself of the importance of self-care. Especially when it seems like the lowest priority on the totem pole of your daily to do list. Self- care is what allows you to fill up the tank of life ultimately to get done what needs doing, to achieve your goals, to win the game. Let self-care be your Valentine’s gift this decade year. A walk in nature, a meditation session, a coffee date with a great friend you barely get to see. Demonstrate your self-love by taking care of the home that has housed you throughout the past, in the present and for all your future years. Take time to tune in with yourself. Enhancing self-awareness in moments of silence to understand what is required for your life engine to run your best. Acceptance, letting go, forgiveness, gratitude, hope, actionable thinking to your future while respecting your past. These are the daily habits and practices of a mind that is driving self-love. Let your thoughts this day of love turn your love to embrace yourself. Happy Valentine’s Day!By Dr. Jennifer Pearlman, MD CCFP NCMP FAARM ABAARM Dr. Pearlman is a nationally recognized expert in Women’s health, hormones and functional medicine and is Medical Director of PearlMD Rejuvenation, a state-of-the-art Women’s health and wellness facility.