We go to the gym to work on our biceps, triceps, and glutes so that we can stay in shape, get toned and feel good, right? Well, in the exact same way that you can strengthen those muscles, you need to exercise your self-love muscle (SML).

Yep, it’s true: you can pump up your self-love strength in the exact same way that you can build up your biceps — through practice, commitment and consistency.

Now, I am all for manifestation, but the thing is, you have to actually follow through with inspired action if you want to see results. I can tell you now: you will not get a six pack just by hoping it will turn up. It doesn’t just magically appear on its own, you have to do the work!

For all your muscles, there’s one simple truth: when you put in the energy, your efforts will 100 percent pay off.  And the self-love muscle is no different.

Here Are 9 Of My Fav ‘Exercises’ To Tone Up Your SLM

1. Be Grateful

The Universe recognizes gratitude. In return, it will give you more of the good stuff. Before jumping out of bed each morning or closing your eyes at night, rattle off as many things as you can that you are grateful for. You get extra points for jotting them down in your journal.

2. Use Mantras

Stand in front of the mirror. Stare into those big, beautiful eyes and say, “I love and accept myself unconditionally, exactly the way I am”. Repeat, repeat, and repeat.

Hot tip: I do my mantras whilst driving, it’s so much fun.

3. Quit Picking On Yourself!

We are going to stuff up, fall down and make mistakes. That’s life! Striving for perfection is neither realistic nor healthy. Pick yourself up, dust yourself off, and cut yourself some slack, sista!

4. Do Something For You

Every day try and do at least one thing for you. Whether it’s going for a beautiful walk in nature, sitting and having a cup of tea, calling your bestie, or doing yoga, take the time to do something that you love. Remember: you are worth it.

 5. Get Still

Sitting in silence is the best way to quieten down your Mean Girl. So much chatter goes on up there (usually thoughts from the previous day, that don’t even matter anymore). So sitting in stillness for just 10 minutes each day will do you the world of good.

 6. Pull Yourself Up

When you notice yourself buying into those old stories and limiting beliefs, catch yourself. Within that conscious moment you have a choice to:

A) Engage in those stories, or

B) Flip it around and turn your negative thought into a positive one.

The choice is yours, baby!

7. Watch Your Mean Girl

Your Mean Girl is super clever. It will sneak into your mind and plant limiting seeds of self-doubt whenever it can. Quickly! Catch her and return back to love (your true state).

 8. Forgive

Place your hands on your heart and repeat after me: “I love and forgive you, [Insert your name].”  Forgiving yourself and others allow freedom and release to flow through your veins. Holding on to the past energetically attaches you to the situation. Let go of your white-knuckle grip and free yourself!

9. Don’t Play Small

There is only one you. And you, my friend, are bloody amazing! Shine your bright light and show this world what you have.

Practice these exercises each day and, slowly, your self-love muscle will develop.

Now I would love to hear from you, how do you flex your self-love muscle? Share with the tribe in the comments below. And remember your comment might be the one thing that inspires someone else to take action.