It all starts from within: Self-love through Mirror Work
When you look in the mirror, WHO do you see? A mirror can be used for more than checking your reflection. It’s also a great tool for reflecting on who you are, and what you desire in life.
A mirror is like the universe. It reflects back to you everything you put into it. When you look in the mirror, are you kind to yourself? Do you project love, support, patience and gratitude? Or do you pick yourself apart? The way you speak to yourself, and treat yourself, is a reflection of they way you see the world around you, and allow others to speak to you or treat you as well. Take a moment think about this the next time you look in to the mirror and follow these steps for added self-care. We can always benefit from a little extra love.
How does Mirror Work aid self-love through self care?
“As you learn to do mirror work, you will become much more aware of the words you say and the things you do. You will learn to take care of yourself on a deeper level than you have done before.” self-love pioneer, -Louise Hay.
Practicing mirror work for 21 days straight as Louise Hay suggests can plant a seed that “develop into new, healthy habits of mind that open the door to a joyous and fulfilling life.” A lot of the work that goes into living a spiritually based lifestyle is based on ritual.
Morning meditations and kriyas, meals, self-care, etc are part of the our daily routines that we practice in certain ways. We do this while setting the intention for our desired outcome. Stating positive affirmations or intentions into the mirror while getting ready for the day, doing am/pm skincare routines, or simply as a spiritual development tool on a daily basis becomes part of a ritual that will help you fulfill your purpose and live your best life.
“As you learn to do mirror work, you will become much more aware of the words you say and the things you do. You will learn to take care of yourself on a deeper level then you have done before.” Self-love pioneer, Louise Hay
How do you practice Mirror Work?
There are many ways you can practice mirror work, but I like to follow these three easy steps:
Step 1: Either stand in front of a mirror (bathroom, bedroom, etc. whatever feels most comfortable, and where you won’t be interrupted) or grab a hand held mirror for more close up, deep work. I sometimes like to grab my journal to “reflect” (see what I did there?) on what emotons are brought up, and where I noticed any “stuck” feelings during the affirmations.
Step 2: First close your eyes, set the intention for the mirror work (do you need an emotional “pick me up”, positive affirmations for a difficult conversation you’re about to have, setting the tone for the day, etc.) and do some cleansing breaths, breathing in through the nose, the forcefully exhaling from your mouth. Open your eyes and hold your gaze for five minutes while breathing gently. What emotions are coming up? How do you feel about the person you see in the mirror? Let it all come through, honoring yourself as you sit with the emotions for a bit. After the five minutes are up, feel free to journal what came through.
Step 3. Based on your intention setting, take time to speak positive affirmations out loud, while holding your gaze. Placing post-it notes on your mirror with various affirmations can be very helpful as well. When I read a good quote, hear some positive phrases, or receive a message from my guides, I write them down and place them on my bedroom mirror to read aloud. Repeat these affirmations until you notice a shift in your energy, and feel as though you truly feel these affirmations in your body.
What are examples of affirmations you can use for self actualization and self love?
I prefer to keep my affirmations short and sweet to make it easier to repeat. The simpler they are to speak aloud, the easier it is to get out of the headspace of remembering the words, and get into the frame of mind to absorb the words themselves.
Here are some examples of affirmations based on the intention you may have set:
Self Love:
I accept all of me with love
I am enough.
I can and I will do things to promote healing in my life.
I am unique in all ways, there is only one me
Setting the tone for a good day:
Every day, in every way, I am becoming better and better.
I believe I can change the world (or at least my corner of it).
I choose to see the good in the people I interact with today.
Having difficult conversations:
Everything will work out in the end. If it hasn’t worked out yet, it’s not the end.
I choose to focus on what I can control.
I can handle this one step at a time.
In summary…
The more you speak your truth and intentions into the universe, the more they will be reflected to you. Honor yourself with kindness, patience, support and love, and see how it is radiated to those around you and how you treat them, and are treated by them. Adding a mirror work ritual to your daily routine is another way to achieve the life you truly desire.