International Natural Day

International Natural Day, or International Day of Self-Love, is celebrated on February 13 every year with the hope of encouraging and empowering individuals with feelings of personal insecurity and uncertainty to let go of self-doubts and embrace their natural selves. Founded by the Love Your Natural Self Foundation, International Natural Day is all about strengthening one's self-esteem and acknowledging the innate beauty within and around you.

History of International Natural Day

Sanah Jivani, founder and CEO of Love Your Natural Self Foundation, developed the concept of the foundation in 2011 after going through a drastic change in her life. Around the time of seventh grade, one morning, Sanah woke up to discover that the hair that used to be on her head was now a pillow. She has Alopecia Universalis, and when her hair falls out, so does her self-esteem. Violent bullying ensued, not only from those around her but also from herself. Realizing that this kind of self-hatred couldn't go on, Sanah began to reframe her self-image and redefine her concept of what it's like to be beautiful. Natural Day is the next step in the journey of helping others realize Sanah's natural nature.

The purpose of International Natural Day before Valentine's Day is a good chance for us to learn how to love yourself. You have to love yourself at first, you can love someone else. Fun Fact: International Natural Day is celebrated in over 50 schools and 28 countries!

How to celebrate International Natural Day

Here are some things you can do to help start love fest! The idea is to face your insecurities and free yourself from them.

• No makeup: Maybe you go today without trying to cover your acne. Indulge in perfumes and body sprays. If what's on the surface is what scares you, let that part of you breathe today.
• Impress you via dressing: what we wear is for the benefit of others. Not today! Nature day is about you, baby! Wear big and wear it proudly!
• Take a day for mental health: You can admit that you need a moment. Spend this time to think about your self-criticisms. Bring them to the forefront and deal with them. For each criticism, dismiss it. Instead of relying on hurtful thoughts, say something positive about yourself! Strengthen rather than weaken.
• Encourage: Celebrate self-love in your community by contacting the Love Your Natural Self Foundation.

The most important thing to remember about International Natural Day is that it's your anniversary. None of us are made perfect. And that's okay. What makes you different is what makes you special. Grab that. Then spread that love to others! We can all use a little more love of nature in our lives.