In a recent episode of the Leading with Spirit podcast, I had the honor of speaking with Abiola Abrams, an inspiring author, spiritual teacher, and founder of the Goddess of Manifesting Retreat. Abiola’s story weaves together themes of resilience, self-worth, and empowerment as she shares her journey of healing from loss and connecting with Goddess energy. Her experiences provide invaluable self-love lessons for anyone overcoming grief or navigating the complexities of growth and healing.
Healing from Loss and Finding Self-Love
Abiola’s journey into self-love began after a painful divorce—a moment in her life that forced her to reexamine her sense of self and her relationship with love. She described this time as both deeply challenging and transformative. Instead of letting the loss define her, Abiola used it as an opportunity to grow. “If you’re still breathing, you’re still evolving,” she shared, a gentle reminder that healing is not about achieving perfection but about allowing ourselves to grow through pain.
Through her healing process, Abiola uncovered the power of radical self-acceptance. She realized that loving yourself isn’t about waiting until everything is perfect. It’s about learning to honor and accept who you are—even when life feels messy or uncertain.
Self-Love Lessons from Loss
Abiola’s story reminds us that loss, while painful, can also teach us the value of self-love. Here are some lessons she shared:
- Healing Starts with Acceptance: True healing from loss begins with allowing ourselves to feel. Whether it’s grief, anger, or fear, acknowledging these emotions is the first step in managing grief and growth.
- Releasing the Need for Perfection: Self-love means giving yourself permission to be human. Instead of striving for perfection, focus on accepting and loving the person you are today.
- Leaning on Spiritual Practices: Abiola credits her connection to African Goddess energy as a vital part of her healing process. This energy helped her ground herself, find resilience, and reconnect with her inner worth.
Tapping into Goddess Energy for Self-Worth
One of the most empowering tools Abiola discovered in her journey was the wisdom of African Goddess energy. She describes this energy as a source of inner strength and self-worth that connects us to our ancestors and to our sacred feminine power.
Through practices inspired by African Goddess energy, Abiola learned to honor her inner voice and create personal rituals that supported her healing. These practices helped her rediscover her sacred worth, reminding her that self-worth is not something we earn—it’s something we inherently possess.
If you’re managing grief and growth, connecting with Goddess energy can serve as a powerful reminder of your inner strength. You might try creating a simple ritual, such as lighting a candle and speaking words of affirmation, to honor your journey and reconnect with your inner power.
Manifesting Dreams While Healing from Loss
For Abiola, healing from loss didn’t mean giving up on her dreams. In fact, she discovered that manifestation could be a powerful tool for creating a brighter future. However, she approached manifestation differently than many might expect.
Abiola teaches that manifesting begins with gratitude. By focusing on what we already have, we create a foundation of abundance. At the same time, she encourages us to dream boldly. “Gratitude and courage go hand in hand,” she explains. Acknowledging your blessings while allowing yourself to reach for more can create a balanced mindset that fuels growth and transformation.
Managing Grief and Growth
Abiola’s journey illustrates the delicate balance between managing grief and embracing personal growth. Loss often leaves us feeling stuck, unsure of how to move forward. But by allowing ourselves to grieve, we create space for growth.
Here are a few ways to manage grief while focusing on growth:
- Honor Your Feelings: Allow yourself the time and space to grieve. Healing from loss isn’t linear, and it’s okay to have moments of sadness or uncertainty.
- Seek Support: Whether through a trusted friend, therapist, or spiritual guide, sharing your journey with someone can make the process feel less isolating.
- Focus on Small Steps: Growth doesn’t have to be dramatic. Small, intentional steps toward self-care and self-love can create meaningful change over time.
How Goddess Energy Can Support You Through Loss
One of the most beautiful aspects of Goddess energy is its ability to help us heal and grow. This energy reminds us of the strength and wisdom that already exists within us, even during times of loss. By embracing this energy, we can begin to rebuild our sense of self and create a new narrative for our lives.
Abiola shares that Goddess energy helped her reconnect with her worth after her divorce. She believes this energy is available to everyone, offering guidance and comfort as we navigate life’s challenges. You might try connecting with Goddess energy through practices like journaling, meditation, or simply sitting in quiet reflection.
Self-Love as a Daily Practice
Abiola emphasizes that self-love isn’t something you achieve and then forget about—it’s an ongoing practice. Each day offers an opportunity to nurture your relationship with yourself, whether through small acts of kindness, self-care rituals, or moments of quiet reflection.
Here are a few daily practices inspired by Abiola’s teachings:
- Start Your Day with Affirmations: Begin each morning by speaking words of love and encouragement to yourself.
- Create a Self-Love Ritual: Light a candle, draw a bath, or write in a journal—whatever feels nurturing to you.
- Celebrate Small Wins: Take time to acknowledge and celebrate the progress you’re making, no matter how small it might seem.
Overcoming Grief Through Love and Growth
Abiola’s story is a powerful reminder that overcoming grief is possible when we approach it with love and intention. By honoring our emotions, connecting with Goddess energy, and practicing self-love daily, we can transform loss into a source of strength and wisdom.
Whether you’re healing from loss, managing grief and growth, or simply looking to deepen your relationship with yourself, the lessons Abiola shares offer a path toward healing and empowerment.
You can listen to Abiola’s full story on Leading With Spirit [Episode #95]: Journey to Self-Love: Lessons from Loss, Growth, and Goddess Energy with Abiola Abrams.