Whenever I hear people have conversations about love languages, it’s usually in a romantic context, but I think that introducing love languages into a self-love context can be beneficial.
If you type in your google search “love languages”, the 5 love languages popularized by marriage counselor Dr. Gary Chapman in his book, The 5 Love Languages, will likely come up.
Quality time, words of affirmation, acts of service, physical touch, and receiving gifts are the 5 languages highlighted in the book. Although I never read the book, I read articles and took quizzes to see what my percentages were in these categories.
After learning my primary love language and the subsequent ones, I restructured my self-care routine to fit my dominant love languages:
Quality Time (37%)
My primary love language is quality time. I didn’t have to change too much here considering I voluntarily spend tons of time by myself already, but I added more structure when it comes to scheduling specific times everyday to ensure I don’t skip out on quality time with myself.
One thing I did have to adapt to with this new practice is turning off my phone during quality time with myself. I strongly dislike when other people are on their phones when we’re out having fun so why would I treat myself that way?
So no phones, no technology, no distractions during scheduled “me-time”.
Words of Affirmation (33%)
I never considered the importance of self-talk until this past year and seeing that words of affirmation is part of my love language, I incorporated it by adding meditation to my routine.
During my meditation routine, I start the practice with words of affirmation: “I am beautiful”, “I am capable”, “I am worthy”, “I am kind”, etc.
I’ve noticed significant changes in my mood since adding this into my routine.
Acts of Service (17%)
I fulfill this love language in a variety of ways in my self-care routine. Sometimes I take the time to cook my favorite breakfast or take the time to clean my space (knowing that my future self will thank me). Any act I do for myself in the present is for the well-being of my future self.
Receiving Gifts (10%)
Since this isn’t at the top of my love languages, I don’t stress myself out with catering to it, but when I do I make sure it’s done intentionally.
Physical Touch (3%)
My favorite way to give attention to this love language is through yoga. Yoga is a great way to tune into the body and inner self. It helps me get grounded, relaxed and energized all at the same time.
Even though I’m not in a romantic relationship at the moment, I think knowing my love language(s) can serve as a helpful tool to become more self-aware and care for myself more efficiently.
If this inspired you to start incorporating your love language(s) into your self-care routine, let me know down below in the comments!
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