In our journey of life, it’s crucial to remember the importance of self-love. It’s more than just a buzzword; it’s a powerful tool that fosters personal growth, mental health, and spiritual growth.
Whether you’re navigating difficult times or simply seeking a constant reminder of your inner strength, symbols of self-love can serve as powerful reminders.
These symbols, steeped in rich history and deep meanings, can be wonderful self-help tools or even tattoo ideas for those who wish to carry them forever.
So, let’s get into our carefully curated list of self-love symbols that have guided different cultures from ancient times to modern times.
Powerful Symbols of Self Love
Use these beautiful symbols as inspiration for self-love tattoo ideas, or just as something to connect with and use as a reminder of your own strength and worthiness of love. Each of these symbols carries a special meaning that connects with a different aspect of self love and inner strength.
Embrace these symbols in any form that resonates with you, whether inked on your skin as a personal testament or held in your heart as a silent yet constant motivator.
Let them serve as daily affirmations of your journey towards self-acceptance, healing, and empowerment.
As you navigate through life’s ups and downs, let these symbols remind you of your resilience, your journey, and most importantly, the unconditional love you deserve from yourself.
They are more than mere symbols; they are companions on your path to self-discovery and lasting self-love.
Lamat – Mayan Symbol of Self-Love
Lamat, recognized in Mayan astrology, is often associated with the planet Venus and symbolizes the ripe corn — a beacon of abundance, fertility, and growth.
This Mayan symbol, also known as the rabbit, represents harmony, self-love, and the nurturing of personal talents.
The Lamat invites you to embrace the richness within you, encouraging growth and the blooming of your personal gifts.
As Lamat is connected to Venus, it also brings in elements of beauty, pleasure, and the appreciation of life’s luxuries, urging you to enjoy the fruits of your self-love journey and celebrate your accomplishments.
Rose Quartz – Crystal of Love
Rose Quartz is known as the stone of love, its gentle pink essence a beacon of compassion, peace, and tenderness. It is a powerful stone for promoting self-love, emotional healing, and the release of stress.
Holding or wearing rose quartz is said to open the heart, encourage self-acceptance, and attract love in all forms.
Let this crystal be a gentle, loving reminder to always treat yourself with kindness and to remember that at the core of your being, you are worthy of your own love.
Related: Rose Quartz for Self Love – Meaning and Uses
Lotus Flower – Rising Above the Mud
The lotus flower is a powerful symbol in different cultures, representing purity, enlightenment, and rebirth. As a tattoo, it reminds us of the importance of rising above negative thoughts and focusing on spiritual growth.
Just as the lotus rises immaculately above the mud, you too can rise above your challenges.
The lotus is a serene promise that purity, enlightenment, and rebirth are within reach, no matter the murkiness that may surround you. It encourages a blossoming of self-awareness and a pristine, loving embrace of all your facets.
Related: 25 Spiritual Buddhist Symbols For Self Love
Narcissus Flower – The Golden Daffodil
The Narcissus flower, with its beautiful, delicate blooms, is often associated with rebirth and new beginnings.
While it is sometimes connected with vanity, in the realm of self-love, it symbolizes the importance of recognizing and celebrating one’s own beauty and worth.
Let the Narcissus inspire you to look at yourself with a loving gaze, to appreciate your unique qualities, and to honor the beauty that resides within you.
Narcissus is the Greek name for the beautiful yellow flower otherwise known as Daffodil.
Related: Philautia: The Beautiful Greek Word for Self Love
Sun – Vitality and New Beginnings
The sun is a universal symbol of vitality, life, and new beginnings. A sun tattoo can represent the dawn of personal growth, enlightenment, and the warm embrace of self-love.
It’s a symbol that inspires positivity and the promise of brighter days.
The Sun’s radiant energy is a daily reminder of the warmth and light you carry within. It symbolizes the dawn of self-awareness and the illumination of self-love.
Let the sun inspire you to shine brightly, embracing each new day with warmth and vitality
Related: The Symbolic Meaning of Sun and Moon Tattoos
Serch Bythol – Love and Let Yourself Be Loved
Serch Bythol is a Celtic symbol representing eternal love made of two triskeles. The intertwined lines with no beginning or end symbolize everlasting love and the interconnectedness of life and spirit.
As a symbol of self-love, it represents the journey of continuously discovering and nurturing the love within oneself. It also represents the radically powerful decision to love and let yourself be loved – which is one of the greatest acts of self love we can do.
It embodies the enduring nature of personal growth and the eternal bond you form with your inner self as you walk the path of self-discovery and acceptance.
Butterfly Tattoo – Embracing Transformation
A butterfly tattoo is more than a beautiful design; it’s a symbol of transformation, hope, and inner beauty.
Each phase of a butterfly’s life represents personal growth and transformation, making it a great way to illustrate your self-love journey.
Each flutter and dance of the butterfly’s wings is a testament to the beauty of transformation.
This symbol is a vivid reminder that change is not only inevitable but beautiful. Your journey of self-love is much like the metamorphosis of the butterfly, filled with growth and color, leading to the unfurling of your own wings.
Related: 35 Beautiful Butterfly Designs and Meanings – Symbolism of the Butterfly Tattoo
Swan – Becoming Your Most Authentic Beautiful Self
The Swan is a symbol of grace, beauty, and love. It represents the ability to maintain poise and self-respect in trying situations and the courage to trust oneself.
Swans are also often associated with transformation – reflecting the transformative power of self-love in turning one’s life into a graceful, harmonious experience.
Let the Swan inspire you to glide through life with dignity and to embrace the journey of becoming your most authentic, beautiful self.
Related: Swan Tattoo Meaning And Symbolism: 30 Best Designs
Starfish – Recognise Your Healing Power
The Starfish is a symbol of regeneration, resilience, and renewal. Its ability to regrow its arms represents healing and the power of regeneration.
It reminds us that we have the ability to recover and grow from our wounds or past mistakes.
As a symbol of self-love, it encourages you to recognize your healing power and to know that you have the strength to renew yourself and to navigate life’s changes with resilience.
Self-Hug – Self Compassion
The self-hug is a powerful gesture of self-compassion and reassurance. Wrapping your arms around yourself is a physical manifestation of self-love and acceptance.
It’s a comforting reminder that you are enough, and that you deserve love and care from yourself as much as from others.
Practice the self-hug as a way to offer yourself comfort, to reduce stress, and to reconnect with your inner needs and feelings.
The Color Pink
Pink, with its soft and soothing hue, is traditionally associated with love and tenderness. It represents caring, calmness, and a non-threatening approach to life.
As a symbol of self-love, pink encourages you to embrace kindness, care, and acceptance towards yourself. It invites you to soften your self-criticism and to approach your own weaknesses with the same compassion and warmth you’d offer a dear friend.
Rose – The Beauty and the Thorns
The rose, with its layers of unfolding petals, symbolizes the unfolding of one’s heart and the discovery of true self.
It represents the journey of learning to love oneself, with all the beauty and thorns this journey entails.
Let the rose remind you that self-love is a process of blooming into your fullest and most beautiful self, embracing both your strengths and vulnerabilities.
Related: Beautiful Minimalist Rose Tattoo Ideas
Lilac Flower – Self Discovery
The lilac flower, with its sweet fragrance and early spring blooms, symbolizes renewal, youthful innocence, and confidence.
It represents the fresh beginnings of self-discovery and the confidence to embrace your true self.
Let the lilac inspire you to renew your commitment to self-love every day, to trust in your abilities, and to walk with confidence and grace on your journey of personal growth.
Related: 26 Beautiful Flowers with Meanings of Self Love
Claddagh Ring – A Symbol of Love, Loyalty, and Friendship
Originating from Celtic culture, the Claddagh ring is a romantic love symbol with different meanings. Its design features two hands clasping a heart, topped with a crown, representing friendship, love, and loyalty. As a tattoo or a piece of jewelry, it serves as a reminder of true love and friendship.
The Claddagh Ring is not just a symbol of love, but a testament to the enduring nature of true affection and friendship.
It represents a loving commitment to oneself and others, reminding the wearer that love must flow inward before flowing outward.
Embrace this symbol as a reminder to keep your heart open and crown your life with loyalty and deep connection.
Related: The Deep History and Meaning of the Claddagh Symbol
Dara Knot – The Power of Inner Strength
The Dara Knot is one of the ancient Celtic symbols related to the oak tree, known for its wisdom and endurance. It’s a popular choice for those who appreciate Celtic tradition and want a tattoo that speaks to their inner strength and resilience.
The Dara Knot, rooted in the might of the oak tree, reflects an unbreakable spirit and a fortified self-esteem. Like the oak, you are resilient, capable of withstanding life’s storms through inner strength. Let this symbol guide you in recognizing your own sturdy roots and the wisdom that comes with steadfast endurance.
Related: 16 Powerful Celtic Symbols for Self Love
Trinity Knot – A Representation of Balance and Harmony
Also known as a Triquetra, the Trinity Knot is an ancient symbol from Celtic mythology. It represents different things like the mind, body, and spirit or the past, present, and future. It’s a reminder of the balance we strive for in our journey of self-love.
The interlocking lines of the Trinity Knot symbolize a harmonious balance between body, mind, and spirit. It’s a call to strive for equilibrium and unity within oneself. This symbol encourages a nurturing of every aspect of your being, fostering a comprehensive and harmonious self-love.
Infinity Knot – The Endless Cycle of Love
The Infinity Knot is a timeless tattoo design representing eternal love and continuity. With its simple strokes of black ink, it serves as a constant reminder of everlasting love and the ongoing cycle of life.
The looping path of the Infinity Knot represents a love without end, a constant cycle of renewal and connection. It is a profound reminder that in the journey of self-love, there are no terminuses, only perpetual growth and endless opportunities for love to expand and flourish.
Celtic Cross – A Blend of Faith and Heritage
With its intricate details and vibrant colors, the Celtic Cross is a beautiful design that combines spiritual faith with Celtic tradition. It’s a powerful reminder of faith, unity, and the rich history of Celtic culture.
The Celtic Cross, with its intricate design, stands as a beacon of faith and a bridge between heaven and earth. It symbolizes the fusion of personal spirituality with the ancestral wisdom of the Celts. Let this symbol remind you of your own spiritual journey intertwined with the legacy of your history, enriching your path to self-love.
Related: Celtic Cross Tattoo Meaning And 21 Design Ideas
Tree of Life – Connectedness and Growth
The Tree of Life is a common motif in various mythologies, symbolizing growth, interconnectedness, and the cycle of life. It’s a popular choice for those seeking a symbol that reflects their growth and connection to the world around them.
The Tree of Life is a vivid illustration of how everything is interconnected. It reminds us that you’re not alone but deeply connected to the world around you. As you grow and branch out, remember that self-love is not solitary but a connection to the deep roots of your family, culture, and universe.
Small Heart Tattoo – The Simplicity of Love
Sometimes, the simplest tattoos hold the most meaning. A small heart tattoo is a wonderful way to remind yourself of the continuous line of self-love that runs through your life, representing the idea of self-love in its purest form.
A small heart is a subtle yet powerful emblem of love’s immense force. It’s a gentle whisper to always cherish and nourish the love that resides within you. Let this symbol be a private note to continuously cultivate a tender, loving relationship with yourself.
Related: What Is The White Heart Symbol Meaning? 🤍 (Heart Emoji Color Guide)
Flower Mandalas – Intricate Beauty and Mindfulness
Flower mandalas are not just beautiful designs; they are a meditation tool used in different cultures to promote mental peace and a positive mindset. Each intricate detail of this design can represent a different aspect of your self-love journey.
Flower mandalas, with their intricate patterns, are a meditation on the beauty of life and the complexity of the human spirit.
They encourage a deep dive into the self, promoting a serene mind and a harmonious spirit. Let these mandalas guide you in reflecting on the intricate beauty of your being and the bloom of self-love.
Related: Mandala Tattoo Meaning and Symbolism and Design Ideas
Phoenix – Rising from the Ashes
The Phoenix, a mythical bird that rises from its ashes, symbolizes rebirth, renewal, and overcoming adversity. It’s a beautiful representation of one’s ability to rise from difficult times, stronger and more resilient, making it an inspirational symbol of self-love and rebirth.
The Phoenix’s fiery rebirth is a powerful allegory for your own resurgence and renewal. Every fall has a rise, every end a new beginning. Embrace the Phoenix’s spirit to remember that no matter the adversity, you have the power to rise again, stronger and more brilliant.
Anchor – Stability and Hope
An anchor is often seen as a symbol of stability and hope. In the context of self-love, it represents staying grounded and secure in oneself, despite the storms one might face. It’s a reminder to hold fast to your inner strength and values.
In the stormy seas of life, the anchor is your steadfast reminder to hold true to yourself. It symbolizes a stable heart and a resilient spirit, encouraging you to stay grounded in your values and beliefs, no matter the turbulence you face..
Semicolon – Continuation and Mental Health Awareness
Originally a punctuation mark indicating a pause, the semicolon has become a symbol of mental health awareness and continuation. It represents the choice to continue living and fighting against mental health struggles, making it a powerful symbol of perseverance and self-love.
The semicolon is a declaration that your story isn’t over; it’s a powerful affirmation of your resilience and continued fight. It symbolizes your enduring spirit and unwavering commitment to persevere, championing the ongoing narrative of your life.
Related: 40 Most Symbolic and Beautiful Tattoo Designs with Meanings
Compass – Guidance and Direction
A compass is a symbol of guidance, representing the journey of navigating life’s complexities and finding one’s path. It encourages self-discovery and reminds individuals to trust their inner compass when seeking direction and purpose.
As the compass guides the sailor, let this symbol guide your heart. It represents your internal guidance system, the intuitive voice that helps you navigate life’s journey. Let it remind you to stay true to your path and purpose, always aligning with your innermost desires and values.
Stars – Ambition and Dreams
Stars are often associated with ambition, dreams, and navigation. They serve as reminders to keep one’s inner light shining bright and to pursue dreams with a sense of wonder and ambition. A star tattoo can symbolize the guiding light within each person on their journey to self-love.
Stars are the twinkling reminders of our loftiest dreams and aspirations. They symbolize the boundless potential that lies within and encourage you to reach for your highest self. Let them inspire a continuous striving for personal growth and self-belief.
Related: Star Tattoo Meaning. 20+ Designs and Inspiration.
Feather – Freedom and Inspiration
Feathers symbolize freedom, inspiration, and the ability to move freely in life. They can represent the lightness and ease one feels when they embrace self-love and let go of burdens.
A feather tattoo can signify the journey towards a lighter and more liberated self.
A feather’s gentle drift is a dance of grace and freedom.
It symbolizes the release of burdens and the embrace of ease and forgiveness. Let this symbol encourage a lightness of being and a soft, loving approach to your self-journey.
Related: Symbolism of a Feather Tattoo: 70+ Designs and Meanings
Sakura – Transience and Beauty
The Sakura, or cherry blossom, is a profound symbol in Japanese culture representing the transient nature of life and beauty. It’s a reminder to appreciate every moment and find beauty in one’s journey of growth and self-love, despite its fleeting nature.
The Sakura’s fleeting beauty is a poignant reminder of life’s ephemeral nature and the importance of living in the present. It encourages a mindful appreciation of the now and a cherishing of the growth and beauty that each phase of life brings.
Olive Branch – Peace and Victory
An olive branch is a symbol of peace and victory. It represents the triumph over conflict and the peace one finds in accepting and loving oneself.
Traditionally a symbol of peace and victory, the olive branch can represent triumph over personal struggles and the attainment of inner peace.
It’s a reminder to cultivate inner peace and celebrate the victories on the path to self-love.
The olive branch, a symbol of peace, invites a tranquil spirit and a harmonious heart. It represents the victory of love over conflict and the importance of nurturing a peaceful relationship with oneself and others.
Related: 50 Amazing Olive Branch Tattoo Designs With Meaning
Snake – Transformation and Healing
In many cultures, snakes symbolize transformation, healing, and rebirth due to their ability to shed their skin.
A snake tattoo can represent the shedding of past selves, the healing of wounds, and the embrace of a renewed, loving relationship with oneself.
As the snake sheds its skin, so can you shed past pains and outdated beliefs. It represents renewal, healing, and the transformative power of self-love.
Let this symbol remind you of your ability to heal and renew yourself, emerging refreshed and empowered.
Related: Symbolism of Seeing Snakes in Dreams – What Does it Mean?
Ouroboros – Wholeness and the Cycle of Life
The Ouroboros, depicting a snake eating its own tail, represents wholeness, the endless cycle of life, and the eternal nature of the universe. It’s a symbol of introspection and the continuous nature of personal growth.
The Ouroboros, an ancient symbol of continuity and cyclicality, reflects the ever-turning wheel of life and self-discovery. It’s a reminder that growth and change are constant, and that embracing the cyclical nature of life is key to understanding oneself.
Hamsa Hand – Protection and Strength
The Hamsa Hand, with an eye in the palm, is a symbol of protection, power, and strength. It is believed to ward off negativity and bring good fortune, making it a potent symbol of self-care and protection.
The Hamsa Hand offers protection and strength, warding off negativity and embracing positive energy. It symbolizes the care and safeguarding of one’s spirit, encouraging a protective love and a strong barrier against harm.
Related: What Is The Red Eye Symbol Meaning? (Evil Eye)
Elephant – Wisdom and Loyalty
In many cultures, the elephant is seen as a symbol of wisdom, loyalty, and longevity. It can represent learning from the past, loyalty to oneself, and the wisdom gained through experience.
The elephant, with its immense wisdom and loyalty, symbolizes the depth of memory and experience.
It represents a reverence for life’s lessons and the wisdom one gathers on the path of self-love, honoring the journey and the knowledge gained along the way.
Water – Fluidity and Adaptability
Water, with its ever-changing and adaptable nature, symbolizes life’s constant flow and our ability to adapt to changing circumstances. It’s a reminder to embrace flexibility and resilience.
Water flows and adapts, just like the human spirit. It represents the fluidity of emotions and the adaptability needed in self-love. Let water inspire you to remain flexible and resilient, flowing.
Related: What Is The Water Type Personality? Dive In to Find Out!
Lion – Courage and Authority
The lion is a universal symbol of strength, courage, and authority. It represents overcoming challenges with bravery and asserting one’s personal power and self-respect in the journey of self-love.
The lion’s roar is a declaration of presence, a statement of one’s own space and identity. It symbolizes not just the courage to face life’s challenges, but also the authority over one’s life and choices.
Embracing the lion spirit is about respecting your personal boundaries and asserting your worth.
Let it empower you to take charge of your journey and lead your life with a brave heart.
Spiral – Evolution and Holistic Growth
The spiral is an ancient symbol representing evolution, holistic growth, and the idea that life is continually evolving. It’s a reminder of personal development and the dynamic nature of the self-love journey.
The Spiral is a gentle yet constant reminder of life’s unfolding mysteries and our own evolving story.
It symbolizes not just growth, but the beauty of progressing and expanding our understanding of ourselves and our place in the universe. Each turn represents a new challenge or triumph, guiding you deeper into the wisdom of self-love and the ever-advancing journey of self-discovery.
Unalome – Path to Enlightenment
The Unalome symbol, often found in Buddhist art, represents the path to enlightenment. It’s a visual metaphor for the journey to self-realization, with all its twists, turns, and eventual peace.
The Unalome’s path is winding, much like our own journeys. It represents the complex and often unpredictable path to enlightenment and inner peace.
Each twist and turn is a lesson learned, each straight line a moment of clarity. Embrace the Unalome as a symbol of your own path to understanding, acceptance, and a harmonious state of being.
Peacock – Integrity and Beauty
A peacock, with its magnificent plumage, symbolizes integrity and the beauty of showing your true colors. It’s a reminder to take pride in your own personal growth and express yourself fully.
The Peacock, with its splendid and colorful display, encourages you to embrace and showcase your true self. It symbolizes the beauty of authenticity and the strength found in vulnerability.
Let the peacock inspire you to walk with dignity and pride, celebrating your unique qualities and the journey that has shaped you.
Acorn – Potential and Strength
An acorn, though small, holds the potential of the mighty oak tree. It symbolizes the strength within and the potential for growth, reminding us of the vast capabilities we hold inside.
The humble acorn teaches the lesson of potential and reminds you that within you lies the strength and promise of something mighty.
It symbolizes hope and the belief in one’s own capabilities.
Let the acorn be a symbol of your own growing strength and the powerful future you are nurturing through self-love and care.
Fern – Endurance and Resourcefulness
The fern, a plant that can thrive in challenging environments, symbolizes endurance, resilience, and resourcefulness. It’s a reminder of the ability to persevere and flourish even in the face of adversity.
The fern, resilient and ever-green, is a testament to endurance and adaptability. It symbolizes the ability to thrive under difficult conditions and the resourcefulness to find your way through the dark.
Embrace the fern as a reminder of your own resilience and the lush growth that awaits on the other side of adversity.
Waves – Perseverance and Power of Nature
Waves symbolize the relentless nature of life and the power of the natural world. They remind us of the perseverance needed to continue pushing forward, even when facing resistance.
The ceaseless motion of the waves serves as a reminder of life’s constant movement and the powerful forces that shape it.
They symbolize the strength found in persistence and the grace in accepting the ebb and flow of existence.
Let the waves inspire you to persevere with strength and adapt with grace, embracing the journey of self-love as an ever-changing, powerful force.
Ginkgo Leaf – Longevity and Hope
The Ginkgo leaf, known for its distinctive shape and longevity, symbolizes endurance, hope, and the unity of opposites. It’s a reminder of resilience and the hope that endures even in the hardest times.
The Ginkgo leaf, ancient and enduring, is a symbol of longevity and a testament to the resilience of life.
It represents the ability to withstand the test of time and the hope that carries us through. Embrace the Ginkgo leaf as a symbol of your own enduring spirit and the lasting hope that guides your path to self-love.
Dragonfly – Adaptability and Self-Realization
The dragonfly, with its ability to change direction swiftly and gracefully, symbolizes adaptability, transformation, and self-realization. It’s a reminder of the ability to adapt and find joy in life’s journey.
The dragonfly, with its lightness and agility, symbolizes the ability to change direction and perspective with ease. It represents transformation and self-realization, the joy of discovering your true self and the adaptability required on the journey of life.
Let the dragonfly inspire you to embrace change with grace and view life from a lens of wonder and self-discovery.
Arrow – Direction and Moving Forward
The arrow signifies direction, focus, and moving forward despite being pulled back. It’s a symbol of achieving one’s aim and the personal momentum toward one’s goals. It serves as a reminder that we are always moving forward in our journey of self-discovery and self-love.
The arrow, once released, moves forward with focus and determination. It symbolizes the forward momentum of life and the directed energy towards one’s goals.
Let the arrow remind you that no matter how much you’re pulled back or down, the direction and strength you gain propels you forward towards your personal targets and dreams, in a continuous journey of growth and self-love.
These symbols are more than just body art or objects; they’re powerful reminders of your journey, growth, and the unconditional love you should have for yourself.
Whether etched in ink as a meaningful self-love tattoo or carried in your heart, let these symbols be a testament to your resilience and a celebration of your individuality.
Here’s to embracing your unique qualities and embarking on a self-love journey filled with positivity, growth, and continuous love!
More Self Love
We are passionate about helping you on your journey to self love and self acceptance. Here are just a few more of the resources we’ve put together on this important topic
- Self Love Guided Meditation Script
- 22 Self Love Movies That Will Inspire You to Be Your Best Self
- 14 Self Love Lessons We Can Learn From Barbie
- 28 Beautiful Self Love Poems For Confidence and Worth
- Top 60 Jhene Aiko Quotes About Self Love
Anna is a Wales-based writer and graduate from SOAS University of London.
As the voice behind On Your Journey, she empowers women to embrace holistic well-being and spiritual growth through her expert insights into wellness and symbolism.
When she isn't writing thought-provoking articles, you'll find her busy crafting and raising her 4 children.