Love in all it's Forms: A Valentine's Message from E.A.S.E. Into Therapy

"The ultimate lesson all of us have to learn is unconditional love, which includes not only others but ourselves as well." Elisabeth Kubler-Ross

Hey everyone. Valentine's Day is just around the corner, and it got me thinking about love. Not just the hearts-and-flowers kind, but all kinds of love. Because, as many of you know, love doesn't fit into neat little boxes.

Celebrating the Beautiful Spectrum of Connection

In my practice and schooling, I have worked with people from all walks of life and learned that love is as diverse as we are. It shows up in so many ways:

The Deep Bond of Partnership (Monogamous or Otherwise): Whether you're in a committed relationship with one person or exploring the complexities of polyamory, the core is connection, honesty, and respect.

The Strength of Chosen Family: Our friends, our chosen family, the people who get us through thick and thin – these bonds are just as vital and deserve to be celebrated.

The Richness of Queer and 2SLGBTQ+ Connections: Love knows no gender or orientation. It's about finding your tribe and people and building relationships affirming who you truly are.

The Unbreakable Ties of Family (Biological or Found): The love we share with our families, whether by blood or by choice, shapes us in profound ways.

Let's honour the beautiful tapestry of connections that make our lives richer this Valentine's Day.

Cultivating Love, Inside and Out

No matter your relationship status, this time of year can be a good reminder to nurture loving feelings, both for others and, crucially, for yourself. Here are a few thoughts:

Expressing Gratitude: A simple "thank you" or a heartfelt message can make a world of difference. Let the people you care about know how much they mean to you.

Acts of Kindness, Big or Small: A helping hand, a listening ear, a thoughtful gesture – these small acts can create ripples of positivity.

Truly Being Present: Put down your phone and truly connect with the people you're with. Give them your undivided attention.

Self-Compassion: A Valentine's Gift to Yourself

This is especially important for those who are single, navigating a breakup, or experiencing relationship challenges. I know firsthand that healing isn't linear. It's okay to not be okay, especially on a day that can feel so focused on romantic love. So, this Valentine's Day, I encourage you to:

Remember Your Worth: Your value isn't tied to being in a relationship. You are worthy of love, just as you are.

Practice Self-Care: Do something that nourishes your mind, body, and spirit. Whether it's a relaxing bath, a walk in nature, or spending time on a hobby you love, prioritize your well-being.

Speak Kindly to Yourself: Be your own best friend. Treat yourself with the same compassion and understanding you would offer someone you care about.

If you find this time of year particularly difficult, please know you're not alone. Reach out if you'd like to connect. I'm here to listen.