Self -love, but make it *Whimsy*

Recently I watched a video of a full-grown man screaming in delight over completing a miniature series of grocery items. When we think of self-love, we often think of expensive spa dates, massages and trips. But self-love doesn’t have to mean luxury. Sometimes whimsy is much less expensive and much more meaningful.

People often believe that happiness must be earned or justified. When joy is framed as optional or frivolous, people may restrict themselves from activities that provide genuine emotional relief. Self-love involves recognizing that positive emotional experiences are not rewards, but essential components of mental health.

Small acts of joy like engaging in creative expression, savoring a favorite treat, or allowing time for play, can support nervous system regulation by activating a sense of safety and pleasure. These experiences may reduce stress, improve mood, and enhance overall emotional resilience, even when they do not serve a clear productive purpose.

So what does this all mean? Embrace the whimsy! Buy the toy from your past. Enjoy a game on your phone. Try jumping rope, dancing, or other activities that are for nothing else other than fun. Did you buy yourself a Labubu?  That silly purchase wasn’t impulsive, it might be your nervous system asking for comfort.

Lisa Frank notebook? Mental-health experts say nostalgia can release feel-good chemicals like dopamine, improving mood and reducing anxiety. Things like retro video games or childhood hobbies can improve happiness and reduce burnout because they recreate “childlike wonder.” Nostalgia is considered a mostly positive emotion, not just “missing the past.” Studies show reflecting on meaningful memories can boost well-being and feelings of authenticity (being your real self).

So buying something whimsy isn’t always consumerism, sometimes it’s emotional regulation and some well needed self-love.