Article by Jamie Santarella
While Valentine’s Day seems to mostly be a day to celebrate romantic relationships, it can also be a day full of self love and self care. Whether you’re in a relationship or not, your mental and physical well-being is just as important on Valentine’s Day as sending chocolates and flowers to loved ones. Here are some ways I plan to show myself some TLC this Valentine’s Day:
Have a spa day.
A spa day is my go-to when I need to practice self-care. Instead of spending lots of money at a real spa, I like to turn my apartment into my own little relaxing resort. I’ll light some candles and take a bath, then later put on my favorite Burt’s Bees face mask and paint my nails. The best part of spa day is lounging around in a robe all. day. long.
Have a movie night.
There’s nothing better than a cozy movie night. I love taking a night every once in a while to do nothing but snuggle up in bed in my favorite pajamas and watch one of my favorite films. Grab some popcorn, a fuzzy blanket and browse Netflix for a hilarious romantic comedy or an intense thriller and just relax.
Buy yourself a gift.
Who says you can’t buy yourself a little something for Valentine’s Day? Show yourself some love by buying yourself flowers, your favorite candy or that lipstick you’ve been eyeing from Sephora. Actually, why not treat yourself to all of it? You definitely deserve it.
Treat yourself to your favorite meal.
Sometimes the best form of self-care is eating a really good meal. If you love to cook, make a night out of trying a new recipe or whipping up your favorite meal. If cooking isn’t your thing, you could order that amaaazing pasta dish you’ve been craving from the restaurant down the street. Whichever you choose, make sure it’s because it’s what YOU want to do.
Hang with friends virtually.
If you find yourself without a significant other to celebrate Valentine’s Day with, reach out to your friends. In my opinion, chatting and laughing with your besties is one of the most fun ways to practice self-care. Plan a time during the day to do a group FaceTime. You can’t go wrong as long as you’re with your friends.
Journal.
My own daily ritual of self-care is writing in my gratitude journal, so why not do it on Valentine’s Day as well? It always feels great to take 5-10 minutes to reflect on who and what I’m grateful for and why. Valentine’s Day is not just about romantic love, it’s also about appreciating the people in your life that are always there for you.
Valentine’s Day is more than just romantic dinners with your significant other and sending cheesy cards. It can be a day to love and care for yourself a little more than usual, so go ahead and treat yourself.