10 Ways to Practice Self Love during Ramadan

Self Love is such a hot topic right now and I am always reluctant to mention it. However having experienced what it can do for the mind, body and soul first hand, I feel like I have to share its benefits to all who will listen. Especially now, during the beautiful month of Ramadan.

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It all begins with Self Love

Why now? During Ramadan, many of us want to do our very best to do all the good deeds and to get the maximum benefit from the month.

Naturally we all want to gain all the blessings that come with the blessed month, however what is expected from us is progress and not perfection.

The root of any thing that we do (in my mind) is self love because making progress becomes easier when we are fully accepting of where we are right now.

In this case I am referring to progress in spirituality, character development, mindfulness, how kind we are to others and ourselves etc etc because during Ramadan, where we are becomes crystal clear.

That as well as the heightened feeling of spirituality makes it easier to make changes where needed.

So here are my top Self Love tips for Ramadan:

Decluttering - Having a clear out is more therapeutic than we imagine but with energy levels low, I usually leave this activity for before Ramadan or after the first few days of tiredness are over. Physically cleansing your space of things that you no longer need has a positive affect on mood going forward.
Stop comparing - During Ramadan you may see things on social media that may make you feel like you are not doing enough. Like you are failing in some way. Like for example, the perfect Iftar spread that you didn't quite manage or the endless crafts that you never got round to doing with the kids. Your social media feed is your space. Nowadays with the 'mute' button, this has become easier. Any social media feed that is affecting you negatively should not be appearing in your feed. Instead make your feed reflect what you want to see. Follow those who inspire you and make you feel positive.
Have a morning power hour - I do this daily. I use my hour for prayer, gratitude, visualisation, meditation, journaling, breath work, exercise. Giving yourself 'noise free' space before the rest of the family are up, is one of the kindest things you can do for yourself. Utilise the time as you see fit. Some people put more time into their night time routine. Do what works for you.
Allow yourself to do something you love - Yes it is Ramdan and your focus should be spiritual development but if you only focus on that, you may find that your burn our pretty quickly. There is no harm in doing something you enjoy. I love to read and I take time out to just lie down and have a read during the day.
Get enough sleep - With Sehri and Iftar being so far apart, it is essential that you are getting the rest that your body needs so you feel your best.
Try Journaling - Journaling really helps you to tune into your feelings and then move forward in a positive way rather then a self destructive way. During Ramadan, some people go into a detox. This may mean emotions coming up that you didn't know were there. Journal about these and allow yourself to feel and process them.
Practice good self-care - You will love yourself more, when you take better care of your basic needs. Self love is self discipline. People who love themselves nourish themselves daily through eating wholesome food, exercising, sleeping well, taking time for themselves and healthy social interactions.
Start each day by telling yourself something really positive or listening to/reading something positive - This will hopefully set the tone for the day.
Be realistic - Make sure your goals for the month take into account the time you may need to spend on your day to say activities. Don't forget to schedule in some down time too!
Practice self compassion - Do what you can, accept where you are and know that you are in the loving embrace of the MOST merciful and he wants what is best for you. Ignore your inner critic and be compassionate towards yourself. You are doing your very best.