Happy Valentine’s Day, fitfam. As it should, love is in the air and I love all of it, don’t you?

With that in mind I want to spend today's read discussing self love and it's importance during your fitness and wellness journey.

While we pursue optimum health and fitness, it's easy to get caught up in external goals and ideals, often forgetting this one crucial aspect: self-love.

Loving yourself and your body is not only important for your mental and emotional wellbeing but also plays a significant role in achieving sustainable results on your fitness and wellness journey.

Let's dive deeper.

Self-love begins with acceptance and appreciation of your body as it is.

Instead of focusing on perceived flaws or comparing yourself to others, embrace your unique qualities and celebrate what your body can do.

Whether it's the strength to lift weights, the flexibility to perform yoga poses, or the endurance to run a marathon, recognise and honour your body's capabilities.

Be kind to yourself

The way we speak to ourselves has a powerful impact on our self-esteem and confidence.

Practise positive self-talk by replacing critical thoughts with words of kindness and encouragement. Instead of criticising yourself for not meeting certain standards, acknowledge your efforts and progress, no matter how small.

Progress over perfection. Treat yourself with the same compassion and understanding that you would offer to a friend.

In all ways, honour your body's needs

Self-love also involves honouring your body's needs and prioritising self-care.

This means nourishing your body with nutritious food, staying hydrated, getting enough rest, and engaging in activities that bring you joy and fulfilment.

Listen to your body's signals and give yourself permission to rest when needed, without feeling guilty or ashamed.

Remain in a place of gratitude

Gratitude is a powerful practice that can help shift your perspective and foster feelings of self-love.

Take time each day to reflect on the things you appreciate about your body and yourself as a whole.

Whether it's your physical strength, mental resilience, or the support of loved ones, cultivating gratitude can help you develop a deeper sense of self-love and appreciation.

Nothing new here

As a reminder, when setting fitness and wellness goals, it's essential to be realistic and compassionate with yourself.

Instead of striving for perfection or comparing yourself to unrealistic standards, focus on setting achievable goals that align with your values and priorities.

Celebrate your progress along the way, and remember that the journey is not linear, setbacks are a natural part of it.

There is joy in movement

Exercise should be a source of joy and empowerment, not punishment or obligation.

Find activities that you genuinely enjoy and that make you feel good, whether it's dancing, hiking, swimming, or playing a sport.

By approaching movement with a sense of pleasure and enjoyment, you'll be more likely to stick with it and reap the physical and mental benefits over the long term.

Loving yourself and your body is an essential foundation for a healthy and fulfilling fitness and wellness journey.

By practising self-acceptance, positive self-talk, and gratitude, and honouring your body's needs, you can cultivate a deep sense of self-love and appreciation.

Remember that your worth is not determined by your appearance or fitness level, but by the love and compassion you show yourself each day.

As you navigate your journey towards health and wellbeing, let the love for self be your guiding light, illuminating the path towards a happier, healthier you.

Happy Valentine's Day.

Happy Love Day.

Happy Humpday.

Remain unapologetic about your entire fitness and wellness journey, true to yourself and always be honest with your efforts."

• Dre Hinds is a personal trainer, aerobic and yoga instructor and fitness “addict” with more than 20 years’ experience. She specialises in nutrition, weight and sprint training, operating out of HindsSight Fitness and Wellness at the Berkeley Cultural Centre. Contact her onabsbydre@gmail.com or 599-6683. Find her on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram under@Absbydre