5 Fun Ways To Prioritize Self-Love On Valentine’s Day

Valentine’s Day is often filled with heart-shaped candies, fancy dinner reservations and cheesy social media posts with couples shouting their love to each other from the rooftops (or the Instagram feeds). For those who are not in romantic relationships, it can be difficult to know how to spend the day in a way that is intentional and meaningful, without being overwhelming.

This Valentine’s Day, show yourself some love with these five creative self-care ideas:

If you don’t have someone to share Valentine’s Day with, it’s time to turn to your girlfriends and celebrate “Galentine’s Day” on February 13 – a day when we show our love for the women in our lives who make every day better. This year, try taking a cooking class at your local Williams Sonoma or Sur La Table, and enjoy a nice home-cooked meal with the girls. Or, try your hand at making floral arrangements with your local florist. Spending intentional time with your girlfriends will make it clear how much love you have in your life.

Whether it’s a trip to the local café where you can order your favorite coffee drink and pastry while people watching, or taking a long weekend to visit a Caribbean Island, make this year the year you feed your wanderlust on Valentine’s Day. Join groups like Adventures in Good Company or the Appalachian Mountain Club to find a local hiking group and join them for a day hike up a local mountain or, if you live in warmer climates, connect with a watersports group to spend the day on the water kayaking or sailing. There’s nothing like a good dose of endorphins at the end of an adventure to fill that self-care cup!

While all the couples enjoy their dinner dates and chocolates, invite all of your single friends over to celebrate their non-romantic successes. Valentine’s Day is a great reminder that love comes in many forms, so why not gather all of your single friends with some good drinks and good food and make some new memories to keep that platonic love going for many years to come?

Solo dates can be one of the most fun and rewarding experiences – if you’re brave enough to do it! Find a new restaurant that you’ve been wanting to check out or book a reservation at your favorite spot, and treat yourself to a great dinner. Pro tip: While many restaurants may be booked in advance for tables, there’s usually a spot open at the bar, which makes for even better people watching –  plus you can always talk to the bartender if you get lonely. Let’s make this night one where you reconnect with yourself and show yourself some love.

While your couple friends may be giving or receiving gifts that they don’t necessarily want (or like), you have the luxury of getting yourself exactly what you want this Valentine’s Day. Why not splurge on that nice watch you’ve been eyeing, or the designer bag that felt too frivolous to purchase on a random Tuesday. Today’s the day to spend a little extra on a well-deserved treat and enjoy the fact that you can buy yourself exactly what you like and want, without worry!