Today I am starting a new series on the blog called “9 Days of Valentines“. As Valentines Day is quickly approaching, I will be highlighting some concepts, activities, decor ideas to inspire your Valentines Day. Whether you are single, asexual, dating casually or in a serious relationship, there is something to take away from this series. So let’s begin with our first theme for Day 1 of 9 Days of Valentines – Love Yourself.

9 Days of Valentine – Day 1: Love Yourself

When it comes to Valentines Day, everyone has a different story and is in a different situation in life. We don’t all need to be in a relationship to be able to celebrate and enjoy Valentines Day. The most important thing one could do, with or without a partner, is to love yourself. I honestly cannot stress this enough so that’s why I put “Love Yourself” as the first day of my “9 Days of Valentines”.

When I was young, I spent so much time loving my ex-boyfriend in our relationship and never loving myself. I lost myself in my desperation to please him and had little respect for myself because I let him walk all over me. We dated for about 5-6 years, and although I loved loving him, I was also deeply hurt and unhappy. After the breakup and over a few more trial and errors I started to get back in touch with myself. As soon as I started setting my standards high and standing by my requests and needs, I noticed a difference in the way people treated me. And that’s when I realized, I must love myself before others can love me and I can love another in a healthy way. When you love yourself, you demonstrate to others that they must also treat you with respect and ‘love’ you.

Everybody has different ways to love themselves.I believe that confidence and love for oneself comes from inside out but also goes from outside in. You don’t necessarily have to bathe in a bathtub full of roses (: P) but keeping yourself groomed and feeling good about yourself is essential. Most importantly, find your confidence and know that you as you are is enough.

“In order to love others, you must love yourself first.”

What did you think about Day 1 of 9 Days of Valentines? Stay tuned for more from this Valentines series. There will be many more beautiful imagery to come! In the meantime, check out my favorite brand crush Thistle and Spire for some Valentines lingerie inspiration:

Brand Crush: Thistle and Spire

If you love bondage inspired lingerie, you’ll love my other brand crush Bordelle.

Bordelle: Where Bondage Meets Luxury Lingerie