Nadia,
Yes, Metta Meditation, or Loving Kindness. The best one that was recommended to me was by Sharon Salzberg (http://youtu.be/W3uLqt69VyI). There are others and you can explore and try different ones until you find one that feels good for you 🙂
I can relate to feeling bad about yourself, and sometimes feel awkward giving love fully to others (possibly fear of how it will be received). Yes, you are right the best process of transforming that feeling is to first be kind to yourself, nurture yourself (put your own oxygen mask first) and little by little it will start to radiate out naturally.
It may sound silly but sometimes you need to give yourself a hug, a gentle massage on your feet, arms, face, so you can feel that precious physical touch. Set an intention of loving kindness towards yourself as you do that. Tell yourself you are precious (yes, you are :)), just as you would do to a small child. As you do that, it may feel awkward at first, and that’s ok. You may also well up with emotion, that’s ok too, let it out. Continue to pour out love, it is inside of you just waiting to come out.
Also, make a date with yourself, if you like to curl up with a book and some soft music, do that. Cook a nice meal, treat yourself to a candlelit dinner. I always remind myself that I am my own best friend and need to treat myself as such. As you slowly strenghten that love and affection towards yourself, you will be able to start doing the same with others. Nadia first, sweet Nadia 🙂
Hugs to you and may your heart fill with love and affection.
With light and warmth,
Helen