The 'Love Yourself' Challenge

Are you up for a challenge? It's February and love is in the air! Love yourself this month, we dare you. 'Hah, you call this a challenge??', you say? Easier said than done, my friends. What did you do today that wasn't for your boss, a family member, client, or friend? Probably nothing. But the good news is, you're reading this post and you're already one step closer to loving yourself!

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*Side Note: Before I get into the challenge, what are your thoughts on Valentine's Day? So many people are against this 'commercial holiday' that it's actually kind of ironic because it turns the day of love into a day of hate. It's just a special day in the year that serves to remind us to appreciate the people in our lives. So be happy on this day doing whatever it is that you enjoy, either spending it solo, with your friends, family, SOs, whoever your loved ones may be. Don't forget to love yourself this Vday by doing something special just for you. 

Back to the challenge, we want you to put in the effort & do one thing a day that benefits your body, mind & well-being. It can be anything, big or small. As long as you can answer the question 'Did I do it for ME?' with a big fat YES, then you're on the right track. Take some time out of your day to put yourself above everything else this month & to love yourself. And if you already do (give yourself a pat on the back) - embrace the moment & savour it a little longer. Here are some ideas to get you started: 

Exercise, Nutrition, & Health: You're not surprised this is on the list, are ya? We are all about fitness and taking time out of your day to work out. The best way to love your body is to treat it well. Try a new Tabata class or Crossfit program. Test out a recipe from Tosca Reno's The Eat-Clean-Diet book. Book your next dentist appointment or physical. If you already follow a strict exercise & clean-eating regime, keep it up! The idea is to be mindful of your health.

(having said the above..) Indulge Yourself: ...have a cupcake! Go order that pizza! Grab a caramel macchiato before your work day begins. Have a baking day! Treat yourself to goodies once in awhile, why the heck not? If you're going to be thinking about that slice of cake all day long, just go for it. Tomorrow's cardio day anyways ;) Just don't go overboard, moderation is your best friend.

Me Time: How do you unwind and relax? Light a lavender-scented candle and spoil yourself with a cup of Red Velvet Cake tea from David's Tea (delish & calorie-free! Score!!). Make it a movie night and play all your favourite rom-coms & cuddle up with some popcorn. Blast the latest CCF playlist and have a dance-off in your room!

Pamper & Spoil Yourself: Nothing says pampering yourself like having a spa day with the girls, getting your hair done or giving yourself a mani/pedi. I'm also a true believer of retail therapy! Buy yourself some scented creams & lotions...or some sexy lingerie - no one will know about that red lacy number you've got underneath that blouse & blazer combo, except you. You'll be feelin sexy all day ;) rawrrrr

Fuel Your Mind: Don't forget to read. Lucky for you, reading our blog counts too. Next, move on to magazines, newspapers, and books. Yes books. Here are some of our current reads that we think you'll enjoy:

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She Inc. by Kelley Keehn - We love Kelley! A super successful personal finance expert, author of 7 books, down-to-earth, independent career lady of our times. I first found out about Kelley on an appearance on the Marilyn Denis Show and have been a fan ever since. Bonus: She fits workouts into her hectic schedule, writing & talk-show appearances. In this book, she shares her experiences with us and how to be a go-getting career gal. You go girl! 

Under the Hawthorn Tree by Ai Mi

A love story recommended to me by a library patron. I'm a fan of international lit, and I can't wait to dig into this book. Even if it means I'll be bawling my eyes out the entire time. Perfect read for the month of love! 

*AND don't forget to love those in your life: Make time for your friends and loved ones. Valentine's Day is coming up & it's definitely not just for couples. Send your friends cute love notes with flowers & chocolates, or make it a Bootcamp day like how me & V are planning to do - or we might end up making it a greasy-pub-food night ;) OR, plan a fancy girls' night: set up a pink-glittery-heart-themed dinner table, make some comfort food like mac-and-cheese, and pop some champy in pink glasses. Throwing an anti-Vday party is also a fun idea, so long as you're having a blast with your loved ones. The possibilities are endless!

from Pippa Middleton's book Celebrate

So what do you guys think of this list? How are some ways that you love yourself? What are your plans for VDay? We wanna hear from you :)

Have an amazing snowy day Toronto chicas & chicos <3

xoxo