From Hatred to Love: Cleansing Our Spirits This Valentine’s Month

As Valentine’s Day approaches, we often think of romance and affection, but this month invites us to explore a deeper, more transformative relationship—the one we have with ourselves. It’s completely natural to find ourselves pulled into feelings of negativity, self-hatred, or even projecting hatred onto others. Understanding this cycle is the first step toward healing and returning to a state of love. 

*Recognizing the Shift: From Love to Hatred*

Life can be overwhelming, and when love remains unexpressed, it can rot and turn into toxic emotions like resentment and hatred. This transformation often stems from unacknowledged feelings—emotions that simmer beneath the surface when we suppress them. Acknowledging that we are human, with all our complexities, is vital in allowing ourselves the grace to feel without judgment.

*Tracking Tension: A Breathwork Approach*

To begin this process of emotional cleansing, it can be helpful to engage in breathwork while being mindful of where in your body you might be holding tension or resistance. Start by closing your eyes and taking a few deep breaths. As you inhale, become aware of any sensations that arise. You might ask yourself

• Where in my body do I feel tension?
• What memory, event, or person do I associate with feelings of hate?
• Am I trying to control or suppress these feelings, or am I projecting them onto others?
• What other options could I use to protect myself other than hatred?

Recognize these emotions as prickle bushes in your garden—not part of who you are, but obstacles preventing you from growing, from being comfortable, and from inviting others in.

*Acknowledging and Releasing Hatred*

Once you’ve identified these areas of tension, observe them without judgment. Allow yourself to feel the dislike or hatred without the need to suppress or project it. Instead of throwing this emotional “garbage” at others or living with it, consider how you can transform it:

1. *Visualize Release*: Imagine gathering this energy as a physical object—a prickle bush choking your garden. With each exhale, visualize yourself burning it or releasing it into the wind. Picture it being gracefully accepted by the earth and your spirit guides.
2. *Forgive Yourself*: Acknowledge that it’s okay to experience these feelings. Accept and forgive yourself for holding onto hatred or negativity; it doesn’t define you.
3. *Transmute the Energy*: Release this pent-up energy, trusting that it will be transformed. Just as manure enriches the earth, allow your emotions to provide fertile ground for new growth. Visualize the dark energy turning into light, nourishing your personal garden.

*Moving Forward: Nurture Your Inner Landscape*

This Valentine’s season, let’s commit to clearing out negativity and nurturing a garden of love within ourselves. By working on our emotional health, we contribute positively to our relationships with those around us.

Every step taken towards healing allows us to rise above hatred and embrace a more profound sense of love—love that begins from the inside and radiates outward.

If you find it challenging to engage in this practice or encounter resistance, consider reaching out for support. Somatic trauma release can be an effective way to process these emotions, and professional help can guide you on your healing journey.

This month, let us celebrate self-love in its most profound form—by acknowledging, releasing, and renewing our spirits.

Lovingly, Chantal Watier