“My self-love playlist is more than just music. It helps me stay connected with myself and empowers me to be authentically me.” – Sheenia Denae

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Music is more than just sound and entertainment. Listening to music can help us heal emotionally, enhance our mood, energize our bodies, and so much more. I guess that’s what Bryce W. Anderson was trying to explain in his famous quote, “I’ve found that no matter what life throws at me, music softens the blow.”

I love a variety of music for a variety of reasons. When I’m dealing with stress, classical piano instrumentals are my go-to for relaxation. During moments of nostalgia, a late 90’s R&B track always brings me good memories and good vibes. And when I’m feeling restless, calming music with nature sounds (such as birds chirping or ocean waves) relaxes my body and puts me at ease. That’s what makes music so special—it has the power to reach us in all areas of life.

Aside from its many other benefits, music has played a huge role in my self-love journey over the years. When I’m feeling disconnected from myself, powerful songs with positive lyrics help me remember who I am.

Life is ever-changing, which is why you should have a good playlist to get you through every season. Today, I’m sharing the top 10 songs from my self-love playlist to remind you of the most important person in your life… You!

“Don’t just keep on giving all your love. Take some back and give it to yourself.”

1. He Knows My Name by Francesca Battistelli

God loves us… even when we don’t know how to love ourselves. And that is why this song is at the top of my self-love playlist. The truth is that we spend a great deal of our lives trying to prove our worth to others, failing to realize that our value is determined by God alone.

If you ever feel like you’re not good enough, strong enough, or important enough—Francesca Battistelli reminds you that God knows you by name, loves you, and will never leave your side.

2. Unpretty by TLC

Sang by one of the best female singing groups of all time, “Unpretty” reminds you that you’re beautiful just the way you are. In a society that has normalized hiding behind filters and material enhancements, this song will empower you to embrace your authentic beauty, and to walk away from people and situations that leave you feeling like the “real” you aren’t enough.

3. Reflection by Christina Aguilera

This song was performed in the animated movie, Mulan, in the late 1990s—and will forever be a classic in my book. Originally sang by Christina Aguilera, “Reflection” is a heartwarming song that sends a simple but powerful message to both children and adults. Don’t hide who you truly are inside.

4. Titanium by Madilyn Bailey

If there ever was a song about finding your inner strength… this is it! Although this song was originally released by David Guetta, I personally love Madilyn Bailey’s cover version. It has a slower beat, which allows me to feel every word. And the level of emotion and passion that she brings to the song is truly resonating.

Whenever you find yourself overwhelmed by doubt and fear, “Titanium” has moving lyrics about courage and audacity.

5. Gold by Britt Nicole

No matter what you’ve been told—you’re worth more than gold!

I used to play this song on “repeat” when my daughter was a little girl. She’s 17 now, and it’s still a favorite in our home. “Gold” is an inspiring song for all age groups, that encourages us to choose ourselves regardless of other people’s opinions.

6. As I Am by H.E.R.

“As I Am” is empowering, chill, sexy, and an absolute breath of fresh air. Personally, this is probably the most soothing song on my self-love playlist.

Although it is technically a love-song, it delivers a beautiful message about self-acceptance and self-worth. During moments of insecurity, “As I Am” can help you remember a very important fact: You are who you are—and you don’t need anyone’s approval.

One good thing about music, when it hits you, you feel no pain.

Bob Marley

7. F**kin’ Perfect by Pink

Some songs just have the power to move you, and this is definitely one of those songs. “F**kin’ Perfect” delivers a strong message against low self-esteem, depression, and other emotional challenges that we often face in silence.

Although this song is over a decade old, it still touches me on many levels. The lyrics make me feel confident and strong, and inspire me to embrace my imperfections.

8. Fight Song by Rachel Platten

Personally, this song makes me feel like I can stand up against anything life throws at me.

Anyone who has ever been knocked down—but got back up—will appreciate this song. “Fight Song” delivers self-belief, determination, empowerment, and inner strength!

9. Ready or Not by Britt Nicole

This is a song that I’m sure many of us can relate to. Sometimes in life, we dim our own light to fit in and be accepted by others. “Ready or Not” encourages us to let our light shine bright, by being true to who we are, and embracing our God-given uniqueness.

10. Superwoman by Alicia Keys

Whenever I doubt how far I can go, this song helps me remember how far I’ve already come. I love “Superwoman” for my self-love playlist because it reminds me of my strengths on difficult days.

I like to listen to this song when I’m alone because it allows me to go deep within myself. For me, this song is all about perseverance and finding strength to push forward in life, even through the most challenging times.

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Let the positive energy flow by using these songs (and many more) to create the ultimate self-love playlist. What songs would you add to this list to celebrate self-love? Let me know in the comments!