A guide to self care - nurturing yourself, opening the heart, and encouraging balance within.

When Rachel, the lovely aromatherapist and creator of Topsy Blends, asked me to write about self-love, I was thrilled! But as I sat down with my favorite raspberry tea and my diffuser running, I didn’t know where to start. Isn’t self-love often like that? Something we know we need but struggle to begin. Sound familiar?
I decided to focus on one step at a time. With my favorite self-love essential oils diffusing around me, I embarked on the journey of writing about inner love—and I hope this inspires you to do the same.
To get us going, here is a handy resource for using essential oils for self love. >>
Depending on what you need, this list will help guide you to oils that help nurture, open the heart, and encourage balance within.

What is Self-Love?
At its heart, self-love means valuing yourself—flaws, strengths, and all. It’s about treating yourself like you’d treat your best friend: with kindness, compassion, and care. Self-love is not about perfection or selfishness; it’s about progress and showing up for yourself every day.
Self-love takes form in practices like setting boundaries, prioritizing well-being, and recognizing your worth without relying on external validation. It’s both a mindset and an ongoing practice. And while it may not always feel easy, it’s always worth it.
Looking Inward
When you’re able to love yourself and embrace your inner joy, that radiates outward and impacts others. Establishing self-care habits helps build that deeper connection with yourself—leading to the love you deserve.
So how do you achieve this? It’s a tricky question, especially with Valentine’s Day approaching. Instead of focusing on external displays of love, let’s use this time to recenter ourselves in self-love. Once we do, we can more fully share our love with those around us.
Here’s the thing: self-love doesn’t happen overnight. It’s not something you achieve once and never revisit. It’s a daily practice. Self-love means devoting yourself to you, showing up even when it’s hard.
When you do something kind for someone you love, like gifting a friend their favorite self-love essential oils (I’m a sucker for a good gift, can ya tell?), it creates joy for both of you. Now turn that kindness inward. That’s self-care. Establishing routines with intentionality can lead to a love that feels as natural as breathing.
Looking Outward
When you love yourself truly, deeply, and passionately, you have the capacity to share love with those around you! Whether with a partner, family member, friend, or your community, self-love allows your joy to multiply and touch others. It’s a beautiful cycle.
4 Pillars of Self-Care
This Valentine’s Day, let’s turn our focus inward. Here are four key values of self-care to help you deepen your self-love practice.

1. Intentionality
Self-love is achieved by practicing habits with intentionality. Self-care should meet both your needs and wants—and only you truly know what those are.
The first step is taking intentional time for yourself. Put distractions away and reconnect with yourself. This can look like:
Meditating or journaling
Creating art or taking a bath
Gardening or going for a hike
Diffusing self-love essential oils like Geranium, Patchouli, or Ylang Ylang (available from Topsy Blends!)
Making yourself a cozy, homemade meal
Using eco-friendly skincare like The Great Omni Oil, which protects and nourishes your skin naturally
Whatever you do, try saying aloud, “I’m doing this to show myself love and care,” and notice how it feels.

2. Gratitude
One of the easiest ways to begin practicing self-love is through gratitude. You can write it in a journal, speak it aloud, or even jot it on the back of a grocery list. Try this prompt:
Today, I’m grateful for ________.
What came to mind? Gratitude softens the heart and helps you notice the beauty in the little things. You can also practice gratitude with loved ones by sharing three reasons you’re grateful they’re in your life. Joy is contagious!
3. Environment
Your space has a significant impact on how you feel. Creating a safe, comforting environment is a key part of self-love. Rachel’s aromatherapy blog has an amazing guide on essential oils for balance and calm. I highly recommend checking it out and using those oils to create a space that supports you.
Whether it’s through diffusing oils, adding them to a bath, or using them in body care like Topsy Blends’ Great Omni Oil, immersing yourself in natural, nurturing aromas can work wonders for your well-being.
4. Groundedness
When you feel grounded, you feel at home in yourself—no matter where you are. Tools like essential oils can help guide you back to that grounded state. For instance, I use The Great Omni Oil (The GOO)when I’m traveling. Rubbing a little on my neck and breathing in its calming aroma helps me recenter....Can you tell I am a HUGE fan of The G.O.O. ? ;) It is my go-to for just about everything!
Find what grounds you and make it part of your routine, whether it’s through scents, affirmations, or quiet moments of reflection.
Self-Love Every Day
This Valentine’s Day, give yourself permission to pause and practice self-care. Diffuse oils for self love, take a deep breath, note your gratitudes, and shower yourself with kindness. If you’re unsure where to start, simply slowing down can be the first step. When you look inward, you create the capacity to radiate love outward.
It’s an honor to write for Topsy Blends and share my experiences with natural, heart-centered self-care. Here’s to more love—for yourself and the world around you.
Xo, Tiff McIntyre