Loving Yourself Is Not Selfish

Tulum Mexico

There’s one thing about me: I’ve always loved myself.
Not in a boastful, self-absorbed way—but in a grounded, deeply rooted way that came from life experience. You see, I was that kid. The one who got bullied in school. Moving to the United States from another country and suddenly being thrown into a culture I didn’t understand made me a target. I hated that experience—but looking back, it shaped me in the most powerful way.

Being alone a lot taught me how to love myself. It gave me the gift of knowing who I was and what I wanted out of life. Even before I became the “popular girl” later on, I already knew how to value myself—my time, my energy, my space.

And that self-love? It helped me choose a partner who respects me. It helped me build a healthy marriage and raise confident children who understand what it looks like when a woman knows her worth.

Everyone around me knew the truth:
If Mommy isn’t happy, no one’s happy.
And that wasn’t said as a joke—it was a boundary. A reminder that my peace matters. I didn’t pour from an empty cup. I made sure to fill mine first.

Jamaica St. Ann

My kids grew up watching a woman who refused to be a self-sacrificer. They saw that their father wasn’t “Mommy’s boss,” but her equal. A partner in every sense. They witnessed a home where mutual respect, not control, led the way.

Fast forward to now—adulthood, motherhood, womanhood—I still take time for me every single day. Whether it’s working out, dressing up and taking myself to a beautiful restaurant, or going on solo trips to reset, I don’t apologize for it. Because I’m not being selfish.
I’m being whole.

And that’s what I want to encourage you to do too.
Set boundaries. Take the time to listen to your body, your spirit, and your dreams. Move your body with intention. Eat with care. Rest without guilt. Take yourself on dates. Learn what makes you glow from the inside out.

Costa Rica

Don’t ever feel bad for loving you.
Because if you don’t love you—how can you ever fully love anyone else?

A Little Love on a Plate 💗

Now, here’s a recipe I think you’ll love. It’s soft, warm, and nourishing—just like the love we give ourselves when we slow down and savor the moment.

Vegan Crepes with Strawberry Chia Jam

Vegan Crepes with Strawberry Chia Jam

For the Crepes

• 1 cup oat milk or almond milk

• 1/2 cup all-purpose or spelt flour

• 1 tbsp maple syrup

• 1 tbsp melted coconut oil or olive oil

• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract

• Pinch of salt

Instructions:

1. Whisk all ingredients until smooth. Let the batter rest for 10–15 mins.

2. Lightly oil a non-stick skillet, pour in a thin layer of batter, and swirl to coat.

3. Cook for 1–2 minutes on each side until golden. Repeat.

🍓 For the Strawberry Chia Jam

• 1 cup fresh or frozen strawberries

• 1 tbsp chia seeds

• 1 tbsp maple syrup

• Squeeze of lemon juice

Instructions:

1. Simmer strawberries in a small pot until soft.

2. Mash them, stir in chia seeds, syrup, and lemon.

3. Let it thicken for 10 minutes, then cool.

Happy Matcha

Serve warm crepes with jam and your favorite cozy drink—
A matcha latte or iced hibiscus tea pairs beautifully.

Happy Hibiscus Tea

Because yes, loving yourself is not selfish.
It’s revolutionary. And sometimes, it starts with a crepe and some quiet time.

In My Vegan Kitchen