Self-love should be at the top of all of our to-do lists every day of the year, but in the spirit of Valentine’s Day, here are some tips on how to love yourself this loved-up season.
Pamper session
Having a good pamper session is great for a Sunday evening, as part of a weekly routine, or for a special Valentine’s Day treat. Me-time is important for our health, and it’s a great way to look after your body, relax, and treat yo’self!
Ideas for your pamper session this Valentine’s Day:
- Facial
- Face mask
- Nails done
- Hair mask
- Foot rub
- Creams
- Massage
- Bath: complete with bath bombs, salts, candles, a good book, essential oils, music, and more
New look
Many people like to start the new year with a new look, but if January wasn’t a good time for you, you could get a new look around Valentine’s Day instead. Whether it’s for a date, a change, for self-confidence, or for health reasons, a new look is always a great idea to get you feeling good.
Ideas for your new look this Valentine’s Day:
- Hair cut
- New hair colour
- Buy some new clothing items
- Wear your clothes in a new way
- New lipstick colour
- Brows done
- Nails done
- New tattoo
Favourite food and a film
I don’t know why some people think that staying home and watching a film with some tasty food is “sad.” I’m sorry, but no more of that! We live in a binge-watching culture nowadays, thanks to Netflix. So, it is no longer sad or weird or lazy to stay in and watch a film; it’s the norm.
This Valentine’s Day, love yourself by giving yourself some me-time. The time to sit back and watch a good film or show with your favourite food without any interruptions. Netflix and chill for real *wink face*
Good work out session
Self-love includes looking after yourself on every level: mental, physical, and spiritual. Working out may seem like a chore for some (ok, probably most of us), but it is very therapeutic and important for all areas of health.
This Valentine’s Day, do yourself a favour and have a good work out session. Mix it up from your normal routine, go with a friend, or push your usual boundaries. By the end of it, you are bound to feel accomplished, energised, and in love with yourself.
Journal
Some people write in their journal every day (like me) which is something I suggest; however, journalling on occasion is still beneficial. This Valentine’s Day, practice some self-love by reaching for your journal and putting your thoughts and feelings onto the page.
Ideas for journaling this Valentine’s Day:
- Gratitude: list some things that you are grateful for in your life; gratitude is a crucial part of a healthy mindset and brilliant for adjusting your perspective and loving yourself and your life again
- List of things you love about yourself
- List of things you love about your life
- Detail your hopes and dreams as if they are promised to you; it feels great
Speak to a friend
Most of us have probably heard of “Galentine’s Day” which is a name for celebrating Valentine’s Day with your girl friends. However, don’t be under the delusion that it has to be a girls only thing. Don’t think that it’s sad or something that is for those without dates/relationships.
Why can’t you spend Valentine’s Day with your friends and that just be all there is to it? Time with friends or loved ones should be treasured and prioritised for our own health. Socialising, loving and being loved, and having a support system all contributes to a sense of overall wellness. Loneliness can lead to some damaging feelings, so don’t cut yourself off from others.
This Valentine’s Day, pick up the phone and reach out to those you care about and have some fun, show some love, and let yourself be loved on all levels. Even if you don’t meet up, having a phone conversation with someone who means a lot to you this Valentine’s Day could make a world of difference in the livelihood of you both.
Host a fun night
You don’t need to go to a restaurant or a bar to enjoy this holiday or your life in general. There’s plenty of things to do, no matter your budget or desires. Having plans with good people is important for your health and self-love. Those who love themselves will enjoy their lives, make time for friends, and let loose now and again; so do just that this Valentine’s Day.
Ideas for fun things to do this Valentine’s Day:
- Game night
- Cinema visit
- Film night
- Cook a meal for your friends
- Golf
- Bowling
- Laser quest
- Air rifle shooting
- dirt-bike driving
- Obstacle course
- Shopping
- Something artsy
- Funfair
- Sports (watch or play)
- Escape Room
- And more!
Switch off
In our world today, we are constantly on the go, busy, and using our minds for about a million things at once.
STOP!
This Valentine’s Day, why not switch off? Turn off the phone, the television, the alarm, the noise of the day-to-day life you live. It’s OK to want some peace and quiet, and in fact, it is encouraged. If you have children or other dependents, don’t neglect them, of course; however, try to get even a short space of time to yourself in the quiet.
Ideas to switch off this Valentine’s Day:
- Read a good book
- Put away your phone
- Meditate
- Go for a walk
- Nap date (this is where you have a nap with someone else)
- Have a bath
Make plans
It’s healthy to have plans; to have things to look forward to. It keeps us excited and feeling like the future is good. Spend this Valentine’s Day making some future plans to ensure this year is the best yet!
Ideas for plans to make this Valentine’s day:
- Book a trip
- Book your next holiday(s) abroad
- Goal setting plans
- Events to attend
- Concert, show, or speaking events
- Plans with friends, colleagues, family, significant other
- Classes or courses (or other progression-based activities) planned
- Meal prep or cooking plans (like new recipes to try throughout the month)
There you have it, some ideas on ways to love yourself this Valentine’s Day! Self-love is important for us all, so make it a plan for this lovey-season, and for the rest of your life.
Remember: you are worthy, you are beautiful, you are loved.
If you need any help in bettering your mental health, or better coping with anxiety, depression, and stress, then my book “You’re As Mad As I Am” may be for you. Check it out here, and download a free sample to see what it’s all about.
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