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Reflecting on Love: Embracing Compassion and Connection for a Brighter Community

Writer's picture: Lauren LaHaye PLPCLauren LaHaye PLPC

February, the month of love. Right? Well guess what? So are the other months of the year. While corporations make a killing for Valentine's Day, I want to remind you that you too can make a killing. If it's monetary gain you're interested in, then you've come to the wrong blog. But, if being rich in love is what you're after, perfect. Now, I'm not implying that this read will change your life, I simply hope to reconnect you with yourself. Let's begin shall we?


It seems the best place to start could be to define love, but who really can with words except for great poets? Instead, I'll invite you to think of "LOVE," while you take 3 slow breaths.

  1. . . Who or what comes to mind? Perhaps a moment in time? Sit in that feeling.

  2. . . What about that person or that pet or that event makes or made you feel love?

  3. . . Is it something you can understand? How much of it is logic and how much is feeling?


The goal is to get curious. Get curious about the love you feel in your day to day life.

Now, I wonder if any of you thought of yourself when I asked about "LOVE?"


Amid the pressure to find perfect gifts and plan grand dates, let’s shift our focus to a deeper, more meaningful aspect of love: self-love and compassion. Cultivating these qualities within ourselves leads to positive changes that extend beyond us, impacting those around us in significant ways.


Love is not merely about romantic gestures. It involves being kind and gentle to ourselves, which in turn fosters kindness toward others. This cycle of compassion can knit together healthier relationships and a stronger community. Join me as we explore the true essence of love, the importance of self-love, and how our brains support this connection through mirror neurons.

A peaceful sunset from one of my adventures, reflecting on water, symbolizing tranquility and self-reflection.
A peaceful sunset from one of my adventures, reflecting on water, symbolizing tranquility and self-reflection.

Understanding Self-Love


Self-love is often confused with selfishness, yet they are not the same. Acknowledging our worth and treating ourselves with kindness is at the heart of self-love. This journey includes:


  • Practicing positive self-talk: For instance, instead of saying “I’m so bad at this,” or "I can't do it," try “I’m learning and improving.”

  • Setting healthy boundaries: Say no when necessary to protect your mental space. (To note, in an age where it's so easy to make or cancel plans last minute, I encourage mindfulness when committing to events/people. In doing so, you won't overwhelm yourself with commitments and will be less likely to bail and more likely to enjoy your time.)

  • Forgiving ourselves: Learn from past mistakes instead of dwelling on them.


My personal journey with self-love began when I recognized its importance. Not in a "Self-Love for Dummies" kind of way, but in a way that allows me to do the things I know I'm capable of when I'm feeling my best. By dedicating time to self-care and mindfulness, I feel more at peace and appreciative of life's little joys. Studies show that people who practice self-love are 75% more likely to exhibit greater resilience during challenging times. Now, there's been many a time in my life where I'm tired of proving just how resilient I am (can I get an Amen?), but love for myself enables me to cope with setbacks and approach others with compassion, giving love freely without feeling empty.


The Power of Compassion


Compassion involves not only feeling empathy but also taking action to ease someone else's pain. A compassionate heart fuels kindness in various ways:


  • Listening actively when a friend is in distress.

  • Bringing a warm meal to a neighbor facing hardship.

  • Sending a thoughtful text/letter/mail pigeon to check in on someone who is struggling.


From my own experiences, practicing compassion improved my relationships significantly. Friends expressed gratitude and trust grew among us. My friendships feel more authentic, our trust and gratitude towards one another has grown, and I am able to intrinsically know when an interaction doesn't fill me up. Experiments show that when one person acts kindly, it can create a chain reaction, inspiring others to do the same.


Mirror Neurons and Connection


Let’s delve into the fascinating science of mirror neurons. These brain cells activate when we perform an action or witness someone else doing the same thing. They are the reason we instinctively smile back when someone smiles at us.


This connection shows how our emotions and actions are intertwined. When we nurture self-love and compassion, our mirror neurons can help spark those feelings in others. It’s like a shared flame of positivity, enhancing our interactions with friends, family, and even strangers.


Impact of Love on the Community


When self-love and compassion become a priority, the benefits ripple out to the community. Imagine a neighborhood where individuals uplift one another rather than tearing each other down. This kind of supportive environment fosters understanding and shared joy for life.


In my community, I've witnessed how small (and big) acts of kindness have transformed connections. Time and time again, we are witnesses to incredible community solidarity during times of crisis. The first thing that comes to my mind for my community is hurricanes. One incredible example of something positive to come from crisis is the organization known as the Cajun Navy. They formed because of Hurricane Katrina in 2005 and have only grown since.

Not all acts need to be on that scale, they can be simple gestures like organizing a neighborhood clean-up which not only beautifies our surroundings but also encourages camaraderie. According to a report from the National Alliance on Mental Illness, communities with high levels of compassion see a 30% reduction in stress-related issues among residents.


Practicing Love Daily


How can we incorporate self-love and compassion into our daily lives? Here are some practical tips that have worked wonders for me:


  1. Daily Affirmations: Begin each day with a positive affirmation. Remind yourself of your strengths and unique qualities. Look at yourself in the mirror and say them out loud, doing your best to believe it a little more every day.


  2. Mindful Moments: Spend a few minutes each day in mindfulness, whether through meditation or simply enjoying a peaceful routine. This practice enhances self-awareness and reinforces self-love. Giving your body some loving time and movement is crucial to finding peace within.


  3. Acts of Kindness: Aim to perform a small act of kindness daily. It can be giving a compliment, helping a colleague, walking your neighborhood with a buddy (my dog Frankie appreciates that kind of kindness), or volunteering your time.


  4. Reflect on Relationships: Regularly assess the relationships you engage in. Identify which uplift you and which drain your energy, focusing on strengthening the positive ones. That includes your relationship with your phone.


  5. Share Your Journey: Talk about your experiences with self-love and compassion with those close to you. Sharing might encourage someone else to embark on a similar journey.

    Frankie <3
    Frankie <3

Embracing Love for a Brighter Community


Acadiana's Snow Day, 2025
Acadiana's Snow Day, 2025

This February, let’s consciously explore what love truly means. Self-love isn't merely nice to have; it's essential for being compassionate toward others. By recognizing how our emotions and actions interconnect through mirror neurons, we understand our potential to inspire love in one another.


When we choose to embrace love in its many forms, we pave the way for a brighter, more united community. Together, we can reflect kindness and compassion, making a positive impact at home and in our neighborhoods.


Here's to love—may it grow within us and radiate outward to improve the lives of others!


Interested in working directly with the author of this blog, Lauren LaHaye, PLPC? Read her therapist bio at www.yourtherapygarden.com or call our front office at 337-254-0362






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