Valentine’s Day is a time for us to share our love for those we care about with our timelines flooded with photos of elaborate dates, large bouquets of flowers and enough chocolate to last the rest of the year.
The holiday is a time for everyone to feel loved.
However, there is one person that we all seem to often neglect on the holiday of love: ourself.
Whether you’re happily single, working through a recent breakup or in a loving relationship, we all deserve to practice self-love this Valentine’s Day.
Here are my top five ways to spend the upcoming holiday treating yourself exactly how you deserve.
1. Give journaling a try
Journaling is one of the best ways to get all of your thoughts onto paper. If you have a habit of overthinking, this could be the activity for you. And it doesn’t have to be only about writing. Journals can really take on a life of their own when you utilize photos and scrapbooking materials to provide visuals of how you are feeling.
2. Take an “everything shower”
It may sound silly, but an “everything shower” can really make you feel like a whole new person. An “everything shower” is essentially an extended shower in which you do everything you don’t normally have time for, such as dry brushing your skin or putting on a deep conditioning hair mask. The best way to practice self-love is to give yourself your undivided attention. Spending an hour or even just 30 minutes pampering yourself will give the mood boost you need.
3. Do a quick workout
Obviously, I understand that this may not be everyone’s cup of tea. The gym can be an intimidating place, and some workouts may look more like a punishment than a way to love yourself. However, exercise in any form can provide you with a new connection between body and mind. Even if it’s only a quick yoga routine in your living room, a workout can change your own mindset.
4. Take yourself shopping
Now, don’t empty your entire bank account trying to “treat yourself.” We are in our conscious spending era. Instead, think of an item you have wanted for a long time but never got around to buying. Maybe it’s a book, a new sweater or the newest pair of shoes. Whatever it is, it will feel more special knowing it came from your favorite person: you.
5. Go on a solo-date
Sometimes, spending time with yourself is the best form of self-love. Take yourself out to dinner, or even just order delivery from your favorite restaurant. Get dressed up or spend the night in your comfiest sweatpants. Whatever you do, just do something you love.
No matter how you spend this Valentine’s Day or who you spend it with, remember that nothing is as important as the relationship you have with yourself.
