Great acts of self LOVE

Dear One,

Happy February and Happy Love Day.

With everything happening in the world around us, choosing to focus on LOVE feels not only appropriate—but necessary. And I truly believe the most powerful way to begin is by showing up for ourselves first. When we care for our own well-being, we are far more capable of loving and supporting those around us.

Aristotle wrote in his Nicomachean Ethics that true self-love is not selfishness, but a virtuous and essential foundation for a meaningful life and genuine friendship. He believed that when we honor our own character and strive to act with integrity and purpose, we become our own best friend—and through that, we contribute goodness to the world.

That idea resonates deeply with me.

The truth is that the Greeks who came after Aristotle were a little off.....

Growing up in a patriarchal family in Greece in the seventies I was taught to care for others first—to prioritize everyone else’s needs before my own. Turning that care inward has been one of the longest and most challenging journeys of my life. I have often been my own harshest critic. But learning to soften that voice, to treat myself with respect and compassion, has changed everything.

At this stage of my life, I know with certainty that real love begins with self-love. The way I treat myself creates a ripple effect—it sets the tone for every relationship I have. When I nurture my own well-being, I am more patient, more compassionate, more generous and I see that reflected back in my interactions with others.

So how do I practice self-love?
What does taking care of myself truly mean?

Here are some of my favorite acts of self-care and ways I honor self-love—

Enjoy.

NOTHING BEATS A GREAT NIGHT’S SLEEP

My Biggest Non-Negotiable by far!

If there’s one thing I’ve learned over the years, it’s this: rest and sleep are not optional.
I grew up with the idea of the siesta the afternoon down time between 2-5 pm  where everyone goes home and rest for the day. To this day, although I hardly have any siesta (but working on it) rest remains my number one non-negotiable. No supplement, no workout, no nutrition plan can replace quality sleep. When I don’t rest, I feel it immediately—my energy drops, recovery slows, and motivation fades. Prioritizing sleep has been one of the most powerful acts of self-love in my life.

Staying active and lifting heavier weights does far more than shape our muscles—it strengthens our bones, supports hormone balance, and enhances cognitive function and makes me so much happier! Endorphins are the best!

As Dr. Stacy Sims reminds us, “Strong women stay young from the inside out.” You can read more about her insights on women, strength, and aging here: Dr. Stacy Sims – Lifting Heavy and Brain Health. One of my favorite doctor and athlete.

Spending time in nature and getting a lot of sun is one of the most powerful ways I’ve found to reset my mind and body. I make it a priority on my recovery. I remember growing up my mom would always tell me to get outside if I was feeling unwell, people in my country would often say, “Go for a swim.” The sea was seen as medicine so was nature, and I still believe in that healing power today.

Healthy Eating Habits Cause Food is our Medicine. Although I love to eat healthy non processed food, getting enough protein and calories in general has been an ongoing struggle for me. Also since don’t eat meat I have to be intentional every single day with my protein intake. Lately, I’ve been aiming for around 100 grams of protein daily, and it takes planning. But I feel the difference in my strength, recovery, and overall energy when I stay consistent.

Supplements I Use & Love
Two supplements I stared using lately and find especially helpful as an active woman:

• Creatine  Recent studies, suggest that creatine supplementation not only help recovery but may also support cognitive function and even help slow cognitive decline in certain populations. I had a hard time taking supplements in the past, but now with all the studies and science evolving, I really trust this one. Initially, I gained weight on it, but now I feel stronger and am able to lift heavier. I highly recommend it to everyone, as it’s supposed to be one of the safest supplements out there.
• Vitamin D is another great one– My friend Angelina  introduced me to a liquid version last year and I absolutely love it as I have a hard time with pills. Vitamin D is essential for bone health, immune support, and muscle function, especially as hormonal changes occur during teenage years but also menopause. 

ANOTHER NON NEGOTIABLE

Family Friends and Community Matters So Much to me 
Taking time weekly to connect with friends and family even is that is a phone call—sharing wins, challenges or just enjoying their company is so enjoyable and important for our well being.

Last but not least a great act of Self Love is knowing when to PAUSE and create space for renewal.

As an exclusive wellness retreat designer, I’ve seen how stepping away from daily routines and responsibilities can completely transform our energy and mindset. When we allow both the body and the nervous system to rest, we return home stronger, clearer, and more present.
Wellness and fitness retreats weave together movement, mindfulness, and nature—It’s not random that I love what I do for a living although it can be very demanding at times but it’s more than anything deeply rewarding to witness my guests reconnect with themselves and rediscover balance through intentional rest, care and human interaction.

This February, I hope you choose what truly supports you—rest, nourishment, movement, connection, and moments of stillness.

You don’t have to do it perfectly. You just have to keep choosing yourself.

Please stay connected, let me know how you take care of yourselves, reach out, and ask questions but also share tips, let me know what you want to hear more about and above all spread the love!!!!

Happy Valentines day friends

With all my love,
Katerina