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Buddhist Quote by Nhat Hanh

“Love is the capacity to take care, to protect, to nourish. If you are not capable of generatng that kind of energy toward yourself- if you are not capable of taking care of yourself, of nourishing yourself, of protecting yourself - it is very difficult to take care of another person. In the…” quote by Nhat Hanh
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“Love is the capacity to take care, to protect, to nourish. If you are not capable of generatng that kind of energy toward yourself- if you are not capable of taking care of yourself, of nourishing yourself, of protecting yourself - it is very difficult to take care of another person. In the Buddhist teaching, it's clear that to love oneself is the foundation of the love of other people. Love is a practice. Love is truly a practice.”

Nhat Hanh

About This Quote

Source Book: The Miracle of Mindfulness, Thich Nhat Hanh, 1975

Self‑care is the prerequisite for caring for others; love begins with nurturing oneself before extending outward.

In simple terms: Love starts with caring for yourself.

Key Takeaway

Cultivate self‑compassion first.

Themes

self‑love compassion interdependence

Mood

reflective calm

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • personal growth
  • relationships
  • mental health
  • parenting

Key Concepts

Buddhist mindfulness psychology

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can you practice daily self‑nurture?
  • What barriers stop you from self‑care?
A Different Perspective

Self‑neglect undermines ability to support others.

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