Selena Gomez – a name familiar to millions worldwide. As an acclaimed actress, singer, and songwriter and the most-followed woman on Instagram, Selena has faced numerous challenges and difficulties. Beyond her fame, what sets her apart is her openness and honesty in sharing personal experiences, especially regarding mental health. Selena has never hesitated to show the world a glimpse of her true self—a young woman learning to face and love herself while dealing with life’s struggles and pressures.
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Learning to Express Love
One of the biggest lessons Selena shares is the ability to express affection and love. She believes that expressing love to those around you not only makes others happy but also improves your physical and mental health. Selena always finds ways to show love through small but meaningful actions. Her close friend Zoe Saldaña shared that Selena is not the type to be overly self-centered: “She’s the kind of person who will show you 300 pictures of her sister, her parents, and her grandparents.”
According to Kory Floyd, a professor at the Hugh Downs School of Human Communication at Arizona State University, affectionate acts like hugging, writing letters, or simply exchanging loving words can help improve mental health. Those who frequently express affection are less affected by stress and have more stable blood pressure compared to those who tend to hide their emotions.
Loving Imperfection
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Selena has also learned to love and accept imperfections in life. She has shared about stepping away from social media as a way to cleanse her soul. No longer feeling the need to announce every decision, she realized it was unnecessary to speak too much or adhere to a perfect plan. Instead, she focused on living fully and embracing her own mistakes.
Everyone experiences countless setbacks, but that’s okay. Instead of being obsessed with imperfections, remember that “after the rain comes sunshine.” Accepting the “rain” and waiting for the warmth is a necessary act to nourish a healthy spirit.
Some Loves Are Poisonous
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Selena has been candid about her relationships. She talks about her current boyfriend, music producer Benny Blanco, with unprecedented happiness: “He is a bright light in my life, the best friend I can confide in.” Selena also cherishes her special friendship with Taylor Swift, whom she sees as a big sister who always offers sincere advice.
However, not all love is healthy. Selena encourages everyone to steer clear of relationships that make you feel doubtful or hurt because they are “poison” for the soul. Surround yourself with people who bring you peace and nourish your spirit.
Embracing Common Pains
One of Selena’s most touching revelations is about her inability to conceive naturally. She disclosed that due to health issues, pregnancy could pose a danger to both her and the baby. “This is a pain I’ve endured for a long time; I never thought this would happen to me,” she shared. Selena has learned to accept pain rather than be consumed by it.
Haruki Murakami once wrote: “Pain is inevitable, but suffering is optional.” Learning to face pain is the first step toward healing. Selena has found strength in her own vulnerability, and she is unafraid to share this with her fans.
Honoring Vulnerability
The 2022 documentary Selena Gomez: My Mind & Me did not just capture cheerful moments but also delved into her internal battle with depression and anxiety. Selena believes that vulnerability is not something to be ashamed of but an important part of life. She thinks that embracing vulnerability helps us fully experience the complexities of life, allowing us to live authentically.
Psychologist Brené Brown said: “When we shut ourselves off from vulnerability, we distance ourselves from experiences that give life purpose and meaning.” Selena has learned to embrace her vulnerability, not just as something normal but as a strength.
Temperature as a Healing Mechanism
Selena shared that alternating between warm and cold temperatures is an effective way to heal mentally. She has experienced cold baths to reduce stress and sauna sessions to relax. Combining these two methods—known as contrast therapy—helps balance hormones and brings a sense of happiness. Scientific studies have shown that temperature therapy can help reduce cortisol levels, thus lowering stress and improving mood.
Gratitude
One of Selena’s greatest secrets to maintaining mental health is gratitude. She always cherishes the good things in her life and constantly expresses gratitude for what she has. Studies have shown that practicing gratitude regularly can improve mental health and promote a positive outlook on life.
Selena Gomez is a living testament to how someone can learn to love themselves and build strong mental health, even when facing difficulties and pain. Through her sincere sharing and valuable lessons, she has become an inspiration to millions around the world. Selena is not just a shining star in Hollywood but also a symbol of resilience and compassion, always knowing how to embrace love and face life’s imperfections.