Most people know that exercise is good for their physical health—it strengthens the heart, builds endurance and boosts energy levels. But what often goes overlooked is the profound impact fitness and wellness in general can have on self-esteem and self-love.
In a world that constantly pushes us to change, shrink or “fix” ourselves, movement has the power to be something entirely different: a tool for self-acceptance, confidence and inner strength.
At its core, self-love is about appreciating and respecting yourself—not just for how you look, but for who you are and what your body is capable of.
It’s about approaching your health with kindness, patience and respect for your body and valuing yourself enough to prioritize your well-being—not to meet societal standards, but to feel good, energized and healthy, explains Jerry Bailey, D.C., LA.c., certified nutritionist, acupuncturist, chiropractic, and functional medicine physician at Lakeside Holistic Health.
“Self-love involves understanding that rest and recovery are just as essential as movement and exercise—it’s about creating a sustainable and enjoyable routine that honors your unique abilities and embraces your imperfections,” he says. “It is the foundation on which we build healthy habits that nourish our body, mind and soul.
Breaking free from unrealistic standards
In todays’ fast-paced, social media-saturated world, too many people approach fitness from a place of self-criticism rather than self-care. Instead of viewing movement as an act of empowerment, it’s often tied to aesthetics, weight loss or unrealistic beauty standards. This is largely due to the fact that we’ve been almost conditioned to believe that our value is based on external validation.
“We (especially women) have been conditioned to think that it is how we look, what the scale says, or how ‘fit’ we are that really is the definition of how worthy we are,” explains functional nutritional therapy practitioner Tansy Rodgers, F.N.T.P.
“From an early age, we absorb messages that tell us thinner, stronger or more sculpted bodies are better bodies, and that struggle, deprivation and suffering are somehow virtuous and are better than listening to what our bodies actually need.”
Redefining fitness as self-care
But here’s the thing—the journey to self-love through fitness and wellness isn’t about reaching a specific goal or number on a scale—it’s about embracing the process, listening to your body, and choosing movement as a way to celebrate yourself, not change yourself.
Exercise releases endorphins, builds resilience, and strengthens the connection between what you do and how you feel. When you start to move in ways that feel good—whether that’s lifting weights, going for a run or practicing yoga—you begin to appreciate your body for what it can do, rather than just how it looks.
When you redefine fitness as a practice of self-care rather than self-correction, you open the door to a deeper, more meaningful connection with yourself.
Here’s how you can use fitness and wellness to cultivate a deeper sense of self-love.
Check in with your body every day
Tuning into your body’s needs each day is one of the most powerful acts of self-love. When you listen and honor what it’s asking for—whether that’s movement, rest, nourishment or stillness—you naturally create a healthier, happier life, explains Lianna Nielsen, an integrative nutrition health coach.
“With so much external noise, it’s easy to lose touch with your inner voice, but your body often knows exactly what it needs,” she says. “That can change daily, which is why regular check-ins are essential.” Simply pausing to ask yourself, “What do I need more of, and what do I need less of today?” can guide you toward choices that truly support your well-being.
Come from a place of gratitude
Dr. Bailey recommends beginning each workout with a few moments to acknowledge and appreciate what your body can do. “Whether it’s being grateful for the ability to move, breathe deeply, or stretch your muscles, focusing on gratitude sets a positive tone for your session,” he says. “This small practice can help shift your mindset from wanting to ‘fix’ your body to celebrating its capabilities.” Over time, he points out that this perspective can foster a more compassionate and loving relationship with yourself.
Set intentions instead of goals
Rather than focusing solely on outcome-driven goals, such as weight or appearance, Dr Bailey suggests setting intentions that reflect how you want to feel during and after your workouts. “For example, an intention could be cultivating focus, building resilience, or simply enjoying movement,” he says.
“This shift from focusing on results to paying attention to the process encourages mindfulness and self-love and allows you to acknowledge progress in ways that go beyond physical changes.”
Choose movements you enjoy
Rather than committing to exercise routines that feel like a chore, Dr. Bailey recommends prioritizing activities that truly make you happy. Whether it’s a nature walk, a dance class, or a slow yoga flow, pick activities that leave you feeling happy, energized and empowered—not drained or resentful.
When you move in a way that you genuinely enjoy, you start seeing fitness as an act of self-care rather than a chore. He also points out that this helps establish and strengthen your connection between movement and mental wellbeing.
Embrace rest and recovery
Self-love isn’t just about pushing yourself; it’s also about knowing when to slow down. Rest days, stretching, sleep and activities like meditation or breathwork are just as important as exercise.
In fact, Kiara Luna , L.M.H.C., owner of Knew You Psychotherapy and author of Becoming a Knew You. points out that over-exercising or ignoring your body’s need for rest can be just as harmful as not moving at all. “Listen to your body, take rest days without guilt and remember that healing and growth happen in the moments of stillness, too,” she adds.
Keep a fitness journal
Keeping track of your workouts, noting how you feel before and after, and jotting down positive affirmations can help you build a deeper connection to your fitness journey, explains Dr. Bailey.
“A journal can serve as a gentle reminder of the progress you’re making in both body and mind and also helps you notice patterns, such as which activities bring you the most joy or energy,” he says. “Documenting these reflections can reinforce a sense of pride and self-compassion, turning your routine into a holistic self-care practice.”
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