How to Practice Self-Love During Hard Times

loversframed
Apr 21
4 min read

Is it really self- love if you can't count on yourself?

Let’s be real—loving yourself is easy when life is smooth. But when things get tough, when your heart is heavy, or when life feels like it’s falling apart, self-love becomes less of a luxury and more of a lifeline.

In hard times, self-love isn’t bubble baths and sunshine—it’s boundaries, rest, grace, and choosing yourself even when it’s hard.

Here are 7 ways to practice self-love when you need it most—plus some of my favorite tools that help me stay grounded when life gets messy.

1. Be Gentle With Your Inner Voice

The way you speak to yourself matters. When you’re going through something tough, your inner critic might get louder—but you get to choose kindness instead. Self-love starts with self-talk.

Try This: Keep a journal nearby and write down affirmations or truths you need to hear.

This guided self-love journal has prompts that helped me reframe my mindset and speak more kindly to myself, set goals and help build more confidence in myself.

2. Prioritize Rest—Guilt-Free

Hard seasons drain your energy. Self-love means giving yourself permission to rest, without guilt or apology. Whether it’s an early night, a nap, or just doing less—you’re allowed to slow down.

Try This: Set the vibe with cozy sleepwear and calming rituals.

I love this silky weighted eye mask it makes me feel luxurious and peaceful. Like I am sleeping in a spa. Spray it with some lavender pillow mist or get a wax melter with lavender-scent wax for winding down and add to your relaxing spay like night time treat for yourself.

3. Move Your Body With Love

Exercise doesn’t have to be intense to be healing. A walk, some gentle stretching, or dancing in your kitchen can reconnect you with your body and ease emotional heaviness.

Try This: Keep it simple and joyful.

These wireless Bluetooth headphones are my go-to for podcast walks and movement breaks. These headphones are also amazing for my small ears and when I need to wear my glasses. They clip right on to my ear and stay put. I also love my soft eco-friendly yoga mat for when I need a few minutes of mindful breathing, stretching, meditating or to do my yoga.

4. Nourish Yourself (Without the Pressure)

Feeding your body is an act of self-respect—not a performance. On hard days, keep it simple and nourishing. Hydrate. Eat real food. Fuel your body with love, not stress.

Try This: Prep easy snacks or meals ahead of time for your low-energy days.

I swear by this blender for smoothies—It has saved my life, it comes with 3 different sizes, a seal and straw and it's so cute and stylish. When I really don't feel like making lunch or breakfast I just blend up a protein shake, some vitamins and fruits and off I go. It is well worth the purchase.

5. Say No Without Explaining Yourself

Boundaries are a form of self-love. If your energy is low, it’s okay to say no—to plans, to people, to pressure. Protect your peace, especially during hard times.

Try This: Use a simple, loving script: “I can’t right now, but thank you for thinking of me.”

This boundary workbook has scripts, exercises, and prompts that helped me say "no" with confidence. This book is amazing, I never thought this kind of journal existed, but here it is. You will benifit greatly by this book especially if you are a people pleaser like me.

6. Connect With Something Bigger Than You

Whether it’s prayer, meditation, or nature—grounding yourself spiritually can bring a sense of calm and purpose during chaos.

Try This: Start or end your day with quiet stillness.

I live by this expandable bath tray, anytime I feel I need to ground myself I take a really warm bath. I add bubble bath, candles, smelly salts and meditate for a while. I take my time and feel the water, smell the smells and care for myself. Once I am done, I read a book, maybe have a glass of wine.

7. Surround Yourself With Uplifting Energy

Hard times can feel isolating. Self-love also means surrounding yourself with people, voices, and energy that pour back into you.

Try This: Listen to a podcast, watch a comforting show, or read something soul-nourishing.

This book on healing and self-love felt like a hug when I needed it most. Also don't forget about my podcast, I talk about how real love should be and how to achieve success with it.

Bonus: Add a little life to your space with this cute low-maintenance plant set.

You Deserve Your Own Love

Self-love isn’t always pretty. Sometimes it’s crying on the bathroom floor, choosing rest over hustle, and reminding yourself: This too shall pass.You don’t have to have it all together. You just have to keep showing up—for yourself. That’s what love looks like in the hard seasons.