Self-Care vs. Self-Love: What's the Difference?
13 February 2025
At Kibworth Osteopaths and Pilates, we believe in the importance of holistic health. It's not just about physical well-being—it's about nurturing your mind, body, and spirit. But have you ever thought about the difference between self-care and self-love and why understanding this distinction can transform how you care for yourself?
The Difference Between Self-Care and Self-Love
In our busy lives, we often focus on caring for others — our partners, children, colleagues, and friends. We celebrate these acts of kindness, but when was the last time you asked yourself, "How am I caring for myself?"
The truth is, you cannot give from an empty cup. If you don’t nurture yourself with self-care and self-love, you risk burning out, preventing you from giving your best to others.
But before we dive into how to care for yourself, let’s first understand the difference between self-care and self-love:
- Self-care is about taking concrete steps to maintain physical, mental, and emotional well-being. It’s the "external work" of getting enough sleep, eating well, exercising, and relaxing.
- Self-love is the compassionate, inward act of listening to your needs and treating yourself with kindness. It might involve doing something that makes you feel good—a warm bath, a quiet walk in your favourite park, or simply pausing to check in with yourself.
Why Does This Matter to an Osteopath?
As an Osteopath, my goal is to help you with physical symptoms and empower you to take control of your overall health. That includes understanding that self-care is a lifelong practice that comes from a deep-rooted belief that you are worthy of love, care, and attention.
Many people ask me about stretching, posture, and physical exercises. While I encourage these, authentic self-care's foundation starts with the mindset: You need to believe that your health matters.
Each morning, I take a moment to ask myself, "How do I feel today? What do I need?" There is no right or wrong answer—sometimes it’s about sitting in stillness, other times it’s laughing at a silly video or enjoying a quiet cup of coffee with a book. The key is tuning into my own needs and honouring them.
Self-Care: The Basics
Let’s face it—self-care has become an industry in itself, and sometimes it can feel overwhelming with so many opinions on what we "should" be doing. Here's the thing: Eliminate the word “should.”
Self-care is personal, and it looks different for everyone. It’s about doing what feels right for you, not what others tell you is best. For me, as an Osteopath, it’s about looking after your whole body—not just bones and muscles, but your mental and emotional health, too.
Simple examples of self-care might include:
- Exercise (stretching, yoga, or a simple walk)
- Staying hydrated
- Getting enough sleep
- Eating balanced meals
- Checking in with your mental health (journaling, talking to a friend, or seeking professional support)
Remember, self-care isn’t about perfection. It’s a journey that requires ongoing commitment. Your needs will change over time, and that’s okay. The goal is to start small and build gradually, not to overhaul your life all at once, which can lead to stress.
Start Slow and Be Kind to Yourself
The key is to be patient with yourself. Change takes time, and it's normal for things not to go according to plan sometimes. When this happens, practice self-love in the form of self-compassion. Tomorrow is a new day, and you get to try again.
Remember, the impact of your self-care and self-love practices can reach far beyond you. By prioritising your well-being, you inspire those around you—your children, friends, or colleagues—to do the same.
It Doesn’t Have to Be Expensive or Complicated
Self-care doesn’t have to be grand or costly. It could be as simple as going for a walk. It’s free, good for your physical health, and an act of self-love because you’re getting outdoors and connecting with nature. It’s these small, everyday actions that make all the difference.
Final Thoughts: Your Health Matters
To wrap up, I want to leave you with two quotes that remind me of the importance of self-care and self-love:
"Health is the greatest of human blessings." – Hippocrates.
"Health is a state of body, and wellness is a state of being." – J. Stanford.
Taking the time to care for your body, mind, and soul is an act of love for yourself and those around you. So, start today. Ask yourself what you need, and listen to your inner voice. Your well-being deserves your attention.
At Kibworth Osteopaths and Pilates, we support you on your journey to a balanced, healthy life. You deserve the care you give others—and so much more.