The Power of Self-Love: My Personal Journey and the Self-Love Workbook for Women

Mindfulness and self-love go hand in hand, to practice mindfulness you need self-love, and if you have self-love you’ll practice mindfulness. I’m one of those people who haven’t seen the connection until the day came that I needed to have both.

Not too long ago, I picked up the Self-Love Workbook for Women by Megan Logan, because I knew I needed help with self-love, but it wasn’t until I flipped through the book that, my journey to self-love was possible. Here's what I've learned thus far.

Yeah, self-love it's important

When I remember to fill myself with self-love, the self-love is so magical. It changes my point of view on life. I can manage my stress better, and I know if I love myself, I can attract the positivity that I need to get my life going! After doing Google searches, I realized I wasn't alone. Who doesn't need some confidence building and that extra push for everyone in a while? The best person, to give you that confidence, and push in life is yourself, you know what works for you! 

A book for Self Love?

A few weeks ago, I picked up a journal and went to work on my love workbook, put a pedal to the metal, and worked about an hour every day working on the exercises in the book. Writing them down in my journal, so that when I’m done with this book, I can go over it again or give it to someone else who needs to show self-love.

The book helps you embrace who you are, it makes you talk about your insecurities, write letters and messages to yourself, and even make a playlist of songs to help you feel empowered. There are a ton of exercises to teach you a little bit about what self-love really is, and how to properly show yourself some self-love.

So far the journey has been great, I’ve learned where my weak points, but I also learned what makes me awesome for being myself. Especially with the exercise that I did writing down positive things, people have said to me, and going to my husband for suggestions about what people liked about me. It was eye-opening and a great conversational piece for him and I. 

This is one of my songs for my empowerment playlist. I kept the list of songs, I know I'd play over and over again when I need that self-love women empowerment moment. 

 

Why I chose this book as a guide

When it comes to self-love, I’m one of those people who will have my critical voice stop me in my tracks, or I compare myself to others when I want to do something. Therapy can only work so much for me personally, working on things in my head, on my own has been helpful. That’s exactly why this book became important.  

I jokingly say I picked up the book because I’m a book collector and love all these guided journals and self-help books, but I also knew that self-love has been something that everyone should have, and I was okay to look for help. I love to read, so I picked something that I knew I could grow from, and that I could enjoy, while using colorful pens and a beautiful journal.  

Hows it helped this far

Since reading this book, I think about some of the positive affirmations that I’ve written down and I remind myself that I am important and there were times that I have shown myself self-love. I know how that feels.  I'm now taking five to ten minutes a day has now become commonplace to reflect on my own self-love, and to practice a little bit of mindfulness.

I admit, I’m still struggling especially when it comes to things like trying new things or realizing I don’t have to be afraid of my opinions, and that they’re what make me who I am. But I’m hoping that eventually, I learn how to overcome these hurdles either in the workbook, my therapist, or my own discovery, but that’s fine. It takes time.  

Self-love is beautiful, it makes everyone’s day brighter. Even though this book title says it’s for women, I feel this book can help anyone show some of their own self-love. Once I’m done with the book, I plan on updating everyone on how my love journey is going! Until then, show yourself some respect, and give yourself some self-love. You are worth it!

The Clean Reader: Why I Don't Write in Books

If you noticed one thing about me when it comes to talking about my guided journals and workbooks, is that I'm not a fan of writing in my books. It might sound strange to some, books meant to reflect about life and mental health, are usually meant to be written in. If you're unsure what to do with your guided journals or self-help books or wondering why someone like me wouldn’t want to write in something as important as this. I thought I’d dive a little bit into my mind for once. I want to explain why I am the way I am and why I like my books to be crisp and clean, for the most part. In the end you can draw your own conclusions or something!

My Personal Reasons

People would assume it has to do with some kind of fear, of ruining something like the book in my opinion. It’s really not even the case, in fact, my reasoning is a little different. While yes when I pick up a used workbook from a bookstore I don't want a book that's been written in. But it's because, if I found a book to be helpful or entertaining and I want to give it to someone else or use it again, I don't want to be sidetracked by my old notes, and my old opinions, I want to start brand new. 

My other reason has everything to do with being able to organize a regular journal or something digital online, the way that I want it to be organized. Not just that with a journal, I'm able to write notes, I'm able to include things in my entries, that weren't part of the book I had on hand, better yet, I can combine one idea from one guided journal and one from another in the same place, and I don't have to flip back and forth between the two.

Some alternatives to writing in books: 

For those who are like me, that don't like writing in books or those who want to try to do something a little different here are some great alternatives to try.

• Online journals and blogs: There are many places online or in app form that allow both private and public places to write your answers in. One of my favorite places other than my blog, is Jrnl, it offers both private and public journals, and even has a spot on the page for about me questions if you're into that kind of thing.
• Word processing apps: Maybe keeping your information online isn't you thing and you're worried about a page or app not working. Word processing apps, like Microsoft Word, Google Docs, and Libre Office (a free alternative to Microsoft Word), are another easy idea.
  

  

  Click here for a free libre office download

  
  
  
• Voice recording: Writing not your thing at all? You can always record your questions as a memo, using an app or your own phone or computer. Most have a voice memo app included! 
• Video journaling/vlogging: Vlogging and video journaling is other unique way to work through your thoughts. These videos don't even have to be public or for anyone but yourself and/or your loved ones. 
• A regular journal: This is the method I chose, I found a journal that I liked at the store, one that I'd want to write my entries in, and have some felt-tipped pens for when I do my guided journaling so that I can be creative! 

There are many reasons why I don’t write in my journals. This is just my opinion and what I want to do with my books.  Each person’s reason for writing or not writing in their books is their own. Wherever you're able to open your mind, clear your mind, and better your mental health is up to you, I hope you enjoy whatever book you're using! 

Bonding Before Birth: The Power of Prenatal Reading

Hey moms-to-be, it's time to read to your stomach! It's a great bonding experience, it can introduce them to sounds, and words, and even start them on the road to a love for reading, and that's all before they get here!  Even if they can't hear yet, it can calm both mom and baby. It doesn't matter what you read, as long as you and your womb dweller enjoy the book! 

Benefits of Reading to Your Baby During Pregnancy

As silly as it sounds, there really are benefits to reading to your baby before they arrive. From enhancing brain development, stimulating their hearing, helps with their language skills to help calm your baby. If you don't want to take some random blogger who scopes the internet to help her learn about how to bond with their baby or talk about ways to better their life, Terra Centre,The Green Child Magazine and Belly Belly all talk about the benefits of reading to your baby during pregnancy. And that's only three links talking about reading to your baby during pregnancy! 

How to Choose Books to Read to Your Baby

Yeah, I know I already said it doesn't matter what you read because it doesn't really matter. But if you're looking for a little guidance. Finding books that have rhythmic language, simple text, books that reflect different ways of life and books that make you feel good. If you're feeling good then they're feeling good. Some examples of books to read are, The Very Hungry Caterpillar by Eric Carle, Good Night Moon by Margaret Wise Brown, Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What Do you See by Bill Martin Jr. and Eric Carle and Where's Spot by Eric Hill. 

Techniques and Tips for Reading to Your Baby During Pregnancy

Now that we have a suggestion about what to read, and know the benefits. Let's get to the fun part, the tips and the techniques, that make reading to your baby worthwhile for both you and your unborn baby. 

First things first, it's best to create a relaxing environment for you to read. Dim the lights, find somewhere with little distractions, play some nice relaxing music, and get comfortable. Some places that may be comfortable, especially for those that are farther along are a cozy chair, your bed, or maybe a pile of pillows on the floor. Be warned that if it's done correctly, you may fall asleep while you're reading! If you don't want to fall asleep, pick a time of day that you're more likely not to fall asleep.

Now that we're comfortable and ready to read, use a gentle tone, but vary your volume and pace to give the book its story magic. You don't need to be a Hollywood actress to read a book, and sometimes it's difficult to read with a pace, tone, or volume that you're happy with, but that's okay, it takes practice and practice makes perfect! When your read, incorporate some soft touches and rocking motions. 

If you're having trouble finding time to read to your baby, you can carry a book with you wherever you are or read to your baby while you're taking a break from work. Don't get too upset if you can't finish your book, because of time restrictions. You can finish the book another time. 

Conclusion

Reading is great at any age, even when your baby isn't here yet. You're still able to promote language development and bond with your baby. Relaxing and reading a book is great for mom and baby.  Let's all share a love for reading. 

From Classics to Modern: 10 Books on My Book Bucket List

In my opinion finding a new book, something new to read, broadens our horizons and expand our vast imaginations. I was scouting the local bookstore with my husband to find the perfect book to stick out at me. I remember telling him that I try to read books that stick out to me and are things I want to read because I don’t know when I’m going to die, and I wanted to read what felt good before I can’t read anymore.  Do you have a book bucket list? Do you know a list of books you want to read before you die?

  The Reason Behind My Thought Process

 Taking time to read is good self-love and a great mindfulness technique, and it reduces stress! Since it's a great stress reducer, I figured, taking a few minutes to read each day will be helpful. I even set set some goals, goals, they're small goals and short-term, but they don't need to be complicated. I've decided to read at least 5 books off of the bucket list as I have it before my son is born! 

My Bucket List

Book 1: Burn After Reading by Sharon Jones
Burn After Reading is a guided journal/workbook that I plan on going through when I'm done working on The Woman's Guide to Self-Love. Maybe my husband is right and I do have a little bit of a guided journal collection. I like being able to work on myself and get to know myself a bit better. 

Book 2: 1000+ Best Ways to Save Money Every Day: The Complete Book of Baby Bargains by Kimberly Danger 

Who doesn't like to save money? This book has tips for moms and expectant mom's on how to save money once the baby gets here.

Book 3: Montessori Today by Paula Polk Lillard

It's supposed to be a great introductory book for anyone who's interested in Montessori education. I would love to get a little bit of a crash course, before this baby's born. I'm hoping this book will actually be able to help me, at least a little bit. 

Book 4:Chaos & Flame by Tess Gratton & Justina Ireland

I'm not a fan of picking up books that have been best sellers within the same year they're released. I want to make an exception with this book. When I think about a book that's fantasy based and has warring factions, and romance, it fuel's me with excitement. 

Book 5: Buddhism for Bears by Claire Nielson & Chris Ridell

I'm not Buddhist, but I saw this book at a store many years ago, but forgot all about it, until after I wrote out my Bear Mindfulness, exercises. I can learn a bit about Buddhism, and enjoy the fact that the book has a bear in it.  

Book 6:  Frankenstein by Mary Shelly

I know the story of Frankenstein, but I never actually read the book. What I've learned from past experiences, spoilers and the Cliff Notes for a book are not actually reading the book. It's time that I actually read a classic. 

Book 7: Gathering Blue by Lois Lowry

  Gathering Blue, maybe a book for teens, but it is part of The Giver Quartet. With The Giver being one of my all-time favorite books, I found it only natural to want to pick up the other books in the series. 

Book 8: Scritch Scratch by Laura Currie

How about a story about a girl helping her dad with a ghost-themed Chicago bus tour?  That's what this spooky short book is about. Let's just say when I read that there was a review/blurb about the book from none other than R.L. Stine, saying that the book was a good read, I wanted to read it too. 

Book 9: Disney Manga: Tim Burton's The Nightmare Before Christmas--Mirror Moon by Mallory Reaves 

 This book combines The Nightmare Before Christmas with manga for a whole new story that I know nothing about. After reading Long Live the Pumpkin Queen, I want to read more about my favorite Disney couple from one of my all-time favorite movies!

Book 10: The Wind and The Willows by Kenneth Grahame 

Another classical book I haven't actually read that  I would love to read. I only know the basics about Toad, Rat and Badger. I know this book is meant for beginner readers, but nonetheless, I still have yet to read it and know I probably should.

I know, I'll end up writing a list with 10 more books that I want to read before I die, after reading these books. I'll probably have a reading bucket list a mile long when I'm through! That's okay, finding new books to read is just part of the adventure. For those of you who have a book bucket list, what books are on yours? If you don't have one are there books that you would like to read before you die?