Valentine's Day decorations have already taken over many of our stores. For many of us, this can be an exciting time to express or receive tokens of gratitude from your significant other. For close friends, this can seem like a good time to celebrate the perks of being single within a group. Yet, for others, this can bring on some blues.
There are many reasons someone may not feel up to the spirit of Valentine's day. Maybe you and your significant other have been having a disagreement lately and aren't feeling as close. Maybe your partner passed and the holiday brings up feelings of grief. Or maybe you are single and the holiday brings on a feeling of isolation. These examples may not even scratch at the surface of what you are experiencing, and with paper hearts taking over stores, media, and more, these feelings can be hard to ignore.
It is okay to feel this way, and you aren't alone in this. However, there are no rules on how you can celebrate Valentine's day. If you are in need of a pick-me-up, why not practice some self-love this season.
So what to do if you're feeling blue this Valentine's season? Here are some options to show yourself some love and gratitude.
Jar of Gratitude. A fun DIY activity could be to create a jar of gratitude for yourself. Each day you can write a note about something that you are grateful to yourself for, a goal you look forward to, or even a little self-love letter. Once it's written, tuck it away in a jar or somewhere safe with the other notes to be opened on Valentine's day.
Purchase some flowers for yourself. Who says flowers have to be bought for someone else? Often we believe that flowers are a gift given from either a lover or in time of sorrow. Although these may be common occasions, there is nothing limiting you from that bouquet of flowers you may have been eyeing. It could add a nice pop of color to your home.
Plan a spa day. Take some time to yourself and do all the things that help you to relax and feel refreshed. Whether you enjoy baths, candles, or going out for a professional massage, this could be a great time to show your mind and body some appreciation.
Limit your phone usage. Phones can be quite addicting. If you are anything like me, you may find yourself feeling tethered to it more than you'd like to admit. However, if you find that social media tends to bring you down, this could be a good time to try and disconnect. Instead, it could be refreshing to spend sometime outside or doing another enjoyable activity.
Spend time with family. If you normally enjoy spending Valentine's Day with a loved on, why not try spending it with family? They may be able to provide that warm and affectionate feeling you are looking for. If this is something that you aren't able to do, for any reason, you can also try spending this time with friends, or even a cute date with a beloved pet.
Make time for things you love to do. Along with being appreciative to yourself, you should also make time for yourself. This is something I would suggest to do regularly, but can be a positive practice to start now! This could be taking time for that craft project you've been eager to start, or just soaking in a bubble bath. Whatever it is, this is a good time to clear your schedule so that you aren't strained for time to enjoy yourself.
Don't compare yourself to others. Above all else, try not to compare yourself or your situation to anyone else's. This can be hard to do at times, but remember that your life is unique to you, but you are not alone. People put on their best face on social media and it may not show the whole truth. Where you are in life is no better or worse than where someone else is. Once again, show yourself some appreciation. You deserve it.
The most important thing is to remember to do what speaks to you.
Happy Love Yourself Day!
Brianna Dennis-McCrory