Be YOUR Valentine. Embracing #FLYFirstLoveYourself … the 2024 trend that starts with self-love.
In the season of love and Valentines, let’s embark on a journey that’s all about self-discovery, self-acceptance, self-celebration and self-love. Move over chocolates and roses and the desperate ‘will they love me won’t they love me’ thoughts; we believe the hottest trend for Valentine’s Day 2024 is all about embracing the #FLYFirstLoveYourself movement. Picture this. An oasis of self-love that radiates from within, creating a foundation for the most genuine connections with others. It’s time to prioritise yourself and let Cupid’s arrow find its mark in your own heart first before your soulmate manifests.
In 2014, Eco Diva Natural Superfood Skincare created the hashtag #FLYFirstLoveYourself. 10 years later, this self-love movement is gaining more and more traction and is more relevant than ever when it comes to self-care and healing on an emotional, physical and spiritual level.
The oxygen mask analogy – loving yourself to love others: Just like the flight safety instructions remind us to secure our own oxygen masks before assisting others, the concept of #FLYFirstLoveYourself emphasizes the importance of self-love as a prerequisite for a fulfilling romantic journey. It’s not selfish. It’s strategic. By taking care of your own well-being, you’re ensuring that you can bring your best self to the table and offer genuine love to those around you. It also helps guide others in how you want to be treated. These are super important steps in every relationship.
Tips for a self-love extravaganza …
Discover your passion: Take the time to explore your interests and find what truly makes your heart race. Whether it’s art, music, literature, or dance, discovering your passion is a key step toward loving yourself.
Solo dates: Treat yourself to a solo adventure. Be your own date for a day – go to the movies, buy that large popcorn without sharing, and relish in the joy of your own company. It’s a fantastic way to connect with yourself. Or take a walk in the park, go to your fave restaurant with a good book and sip your fave wine, without feeling alone. Because you’re with yourself.
Floral Love: Who says flowers are only for special occasions? Gift yourself a beautiful bouquet or favourite plant every week – because you deserve it. Let the vibrant colors and sweet fragrance remind you of the beauty within you and that you are worthy every single day to be love, to be cherished and to be adored.
At-home spa ritual: Create a sanctuary at home with a spa ritual that pampers your body and soul. Indulge in soothing salt and essential oil baths, enjoy indulgent body scrubs, and face masks. Elevate your self-care routine with luxurious, clean, kind and ethical skincare products for your face, hair, and body. Treat yourself the way you would love others to treat you.
Explore your desires: Self-love extends to understanding and embracing your desires. Take the time to explore what turns you on emotionally, mentally, and physically. Knowing yourself better allows you to communicate your needs and desires to a partner without awkward discomfort.
#FLYFirstLoveYourself – because you’re worthy: In a world that often emphasizes outward expressions of love, #FLYFirstLoveYourself is a gentle reminder to turn the spotlight inward. Celebrate the unique, extraordinary person that is you. As the saying goes, “you can’t pour from an empty cup,” and by loving yourself first, you’re filling that cup with a love that overflows, enriching not just your life but the lives of those fortunate enough to share it with you.
So, this Valentine’s Day, join the #FLYFirstLoveYourself movement, because you are the most important love story you’ll ever tell. Cheers to self-love, personal exploration, and the joy that comes from being your own valentine!
Complied by KYM ARGO. • Text: NICOLE SHERWIN, founder Eco Diva Natural Superfood Skincare. www.ecodiva.co.za
