Author: Amber Brubaker
It’s true that the major focus of Valentine’s Day is to show love to your significant other. But if you don’t have a significant other, it doesn’t mean you should ignore the holiday. Even if you and your partner already have plans for the holiday, you still shouldn’t pass up this great opportunity to show yourself how much you love YOU by treating yourself on the big day.
Here are some ideas for meaningful ways to celebrate YOU on the holiday of love.
1. Pedicures and Manicures
You need to get yourself a good manicure and pedicure on this special day, especially if you already have a night out planned with your loved one. Really treat yourself here. Do something extra special, like choose a color or style that you normally wouldn’t touch. Even if no one else notices, you’ll feel beautiful.
2. Get a Facial
This one is also a must to make you feel and look great for a night out (or in)! If you’ve never had a professional facial, cross it off your bucket list after Valentine’s Day this year. If you go to a really good spa, you’re sure to have one of the most soothing and relaxing experiences of your life. As explained in this article, the best spa facials include microderm abrasion, which removes dead skin cells and revitalizes skin.
3. Say Your Affirmations
There’s no need to spend money to feel great for Valentine’s Day. Just look yourself in the eye (well, in the mirror) and tell yourself how great you are. Note your positive qualities, and banish any negative thoughts. Doing this in the morning right after you wake up on Valentine’s Day will give you a fantastic start to a lovely day.
4. Get a New Outfit
Nothing says, “I love me,” like a brand new outfit, complete with shoes and accessories. You really do owe it to yourself to pick out some new digs that make you feel like a star. So grab a couple of girlfriends, and hit your favorite stores and boutiques. If you have plans with your partner for Valentine’s Day, make sure you wear your new clothes!
5. Exercise
Though the idea of sweating and aching after a tough workout at the gym doesn’t seem like a great way to show your love for yourself, you’d be surprised what a difference it can make in the way you feel. Maintaining a habit of regular exercise will lead to a healthier you, and you’re mental and physical health will thank you as well.
6. Make a Treat for Yourself and Don’t Share
Valentine’s Day is no time for self discipline. Just for a day, give in to that overwhelming craving for your favorite treat, and don’t share! With how hard you work, you deserve a chance to take part in a little decadence for once.
7. Only Say Positive Things
Refrain from acknowledging the negative in your dealings with yourselves and others. As the old song says, “Accentuate the positive.” Take the day off from making judgmental or negative comments about others. Instead, look for the good in them, and make sure you let them know you noticed their positive traits. It may be a little challenging, but you’re sure to notice a significant positive shift in your mood that day.
8. Massage Time
Book a massage, whether it’s only for you or for you and your partner. Either way, indulge in the relaxation that comes with such a great gift to yourself. You can enjoy time to meditate and ponder on what’s important to you, especially if the masseuse you choose is particularly talented.
9. Get a Babysitter
Consider getting a babysitter for more than your night out on Valentine’s Day. You can enjoy some much needed “you” time to primp and prep for your date. Though you love your kids and love spending time with them, there’s no denying that a break to do something for yourself unhampered by the needs of your little ones is a great way to revitalize yourself so that you can continue to enjoy the journey.
10. Eat Three Square Meals
Breakfast is too commonly skipped or substituted with donuts and coffee, and lunch too often postponed as you go about your various errands and responsibilities. This year, try taking just one day to focus on your health, and eat a healthy meal on time for every meal. Notice how much more energy you have for that day. Who knows? Maybe you’ll like it so much you’ll never go back to your old, rushed ways!
Though you may think you don’t need some of these things to feel special, do them anyway. You may have forgotten how much these small ways to treat yourself can make such a big difference, but once you take the time to attend to yourself, you’ll remember what it’s like to feel like a queen.