With Valentine’s Day upon us, having a mix of feelings is understandable. The day is typically rife with fairy-tale movies, cheesy commercials about love, and an endless stream of social media posts from people in relationships. To help, here are a few ways to celebrate self-care and self-compassion and combat loneliness on Valentine’s Day and beyond.
1.
Focus on you
Show love for yourself and appreciation for the love that surrounds you with whatever simple self-care activities bring you joy, rest, or relaxation. Connect with an old friend, take a nap, do that home hobby you’ve been wanting to try, enjoy the outdoors, or eat a favorite food. You’ll be surprised how quickly simple pleasures can elevate your mood.
2.
Look for the good
It can be hard to focus on the positive things in your life on a day when everyone is showcasing how successful their relationships are. Instead, look for the good: write down or say out loud three things you’re grateful for.
3.
Catch up with an old friend or two
When times are tough, you want your best friends nearby. This Valentine’s Day, invite a friend or group of friends over for dinner and a movie. Use this time to reminisce about old times, and don’t be afraid to open up about what you’re feeling. Sharing what’s bothering you is a great way to lift a weight off your shoulders. Chances are your friends are experiencing similar stressors.
4.
Make plans
Having something to do on Valentine’s Day (for yourself or with others) can help take your mind off of worrisome or stressful things. Host a movie or game night with your circle of friends or gather virtually. The most important thing is that you’re surrounding yourself with people who love and support you and make you feel good.
5.
Check out Headspace for mindfulness and meditation
Did you know that BU Wellbeing offers all BU students free access to Headspace—a research-backed app for mindfulness and meditation? Pop on your headphones, turn on a meditation exercise and feel your stress disappear.
6.
Give social media a rest
While social media is an easy way to stay connected, Valentine’s Day might not be the best time to scroll through your feeds. The day almost certainly promises to be filled with couples’ photos, unrealistic gestures of love from influencers, and countless Instagram stories of Valentine’s Day dinners. All of this can trigger anxiety and send you down a rabbit hole of emotions that’s hard to climb out of. Leave your phone, tablet, or laptop in another room and find a different way to occupy your time. If you can’t step away from your device, it might be helpful to spend your time elsewhere on the web. To start, check out these useful well-being videos by BU’s School of Public Health.
7.
Perform a random act of kindness
When we do something kind or thoughtful for others, our feeling of well-being is boosted. Use this time to give back to the community. You’ll be surprised by the smile it puts on your face.
8.
Remember to seek support if you need it
It’s okay to ask for help. If you’re feeling overwhelmed and need someone to talk to, BU has an array of resources to help you through whatever you’re feeling. Connect with SARP if you’re worried about your relationship. Also, Behavioral Medicine has a range of mental health services and support groups. Whether it’s a friend or a professional, there is always someone at BU you can talk to.
Show love for yourself and appreciation for the love that surrounds you with whatever simple self-care activities bring you joy, rest, or relaxation. Connect with an old friend, take a nap, do that home hobby you've been wanting to try, enjoy the outdoors, or eat a favorite food.
However, it's important to remember that all forms of love in our life (platonic love, familial love, and of course, self-love) have a place on Valentine's Day. That's why I want to encourage you to put yourself first and carve out time for self-care, starting today!
Valentine's Day is a celebration of love, and why not show yourself some love in the same way you would a partner or friend? Setting aside a day, or even a few moments, to show yourself some extra love and compassion is a great way to put yourself first and practice self-love.
"Buy yourself flowers, chocolates, or something special.Prepare a nice meal or order takeout.Send loving messages to friends and family and see what they write back," Ginsberg suggests. That's especially important if Valentine's Day has you feeling a bit blue over all things red, white and pink.
The psychological effects of Valentine's Day can vary widely depending on individual experiences and circ*mstances. For some, the holiday may serve as a source of joy and connection, strengthening bonds with loved ones. For others, it may exacerbate feelings of loneliness, isolation, or unworthiness.
Learn to appreciate your own company by taking time to do things that feel good and make you happy. Whether it's pursuing a hobby, meditating, going for a hike, or taking yourself out to the movies, spend time with yourself doing the things you enjoy.
National Self Love Day on the 13th of February is a day dedicated to embracing your love, compassion, and care for yourself. Society often puts so much focus on love for others, and with Valentine's Day occurring on the 14th of February, people may be talking more about partners, crushes, and relationships.
In fact, it can be celebrated by anyone who wants to express their affection for someone special, regardless of their relationship status. Valentine's Day is a day for celebrating love, not just romantic love between couples. It's a day to celebrate the love we have for our friends, family members, and even ourselves.
Use Valentine's Day as an opportunity to practice self-care all night long. Light your favorite candles, pour yourself a glass of your favorite drink, and run a hot bath you can relax in for as long as you want.
Valentine's Day is a celebration of love, and why not show yourself some love in the same way you would a partner or friend? Setting aside a day, or even a few moments, to show yourself some extra love and compassion is a great way to put yourself first and practice self-love.
Introduction: My name is Carlyn Walter, I am a lively, glamorous, healthy, clean, powerful, calm, combative person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.
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