February 04, 2020
Love yourself this Valentine's Day (and every day).
Love comes in all shapes and forms. It’s not just about romantic love, but also the love we feel for ourselves, friends and family. This Valentine’s Day, celebrate love outside of a relationship with these seven fantastic ideas.
1. Treat Yourself
Who says you need a partner to receive gifts on Valentine’s Day? If you want a bouquet of flowers, treat yourself to them. If you want a box of chocolates, go out and buy them. If you want a heart-shaped pizza, call up your favorite pizza joint for delivery. The point is, don’t wait on someone else to receive the love you deserve. If you want something, go get it.
2. Girl’s Night
Replace the v with a g and you’ve got Galentine’s Day. February 14 is a perfect time to go out and celebrate your friendships. Not sure what to do? The internet is full of ideas. Check Facebook for events happening near you. Many venues now cater to Galentine’s Day and will hold special events like movie, wine or trivia nights. Or you can always hit the town and go dancing. Sometimes your best relationships are the ones you have with your friends, and they’re all worth celebrating.
3. Give Love, Receive Love
Even if it’s not always obvious, the love you give comes back around. Spread the love this Valentine’s Day by doing something nice for the people you care about or even a stranger. Back in elementary school, it was customary to buy a box of Valentine’s cards to give your classmates. Bring that tradition back by sending heartfelt notes to those you love. You can also participate in a random act of kindness and make someone else’s day. Pay for a stranger’s coffee. Leave your coworker a compliment on a sticky note. Buy flowers for your best friends. Whatever it is you choose to do, do it with love and you’ll be sure to feel it in return.
4. A Relaxing Night In
Instead of stressing over what to do on Valentine’s Day, take the opposite approach and do nothing. Sometimes a night spent watching TV is exactly what you need. Not in the mood for romance? All you’ll need for a perfect night in is a bag of popcorn, a glass of wine and a comfortable set of pajamas.
5. Book a Spa Day
When was the last time you treated yourself to a massage? Being independent isn’t always easy. That’s why it’s important to pamper yourself once in a while. Get a full package deal at a spa and decompress while letting someone else take care of you. If you don’t like going to spas, take a yoga class, get your hair done or book an acupuncture appointment. Whatever you need to relax, do it. February 14 is your day as much as it is anybody else’s.
6. Let Go of the Past
If you’re going through a recent breakup, Valentine’s Day may feel triggering and overwhelming. However, perspective is everything. Instead of concentrating on what you’ve lost or what you feel you’re lacking, think about what you’ve gained. Every experience is an opportunity to learn something. Take the day to reflect, journal and set intentions for the 'new you.' Figuring out what you want is the first step to getting it.
7. Love Yourself
Don’t forget to love yourself, not just on Valentine’s Day but every day. Self-love is the greatest gift you can give yourself and luckily that kind of love lasts forever.
