5 Steps to self-love this Valentine's Day! 

By: Brianna McAleer 

It is easy to become consumed by the common gestures and romances that are centered around Valentine's Day. There is always an expectation in the air that people must please their partners and loved ones on an extravagant level. While showing others with the love and affection you have for them is an admirable thing to do, showing yourself love is important above all! 

Here are 5 steps that you can take this Valentine’s Day to show yourself some love! 

1. Treat yourself

Whether you want to buy yourself your favorite candy/chocolate, some new clothes that you have been eyeing, buy yourself something that you want. You deserve it! I personally will be treating myself to some ice cream! 

2. Write down in a journal all of the things you love about yourself 

Sometimes on Valentine’s Day we can get very caught up in the affection we have for other people rather than ourselves. Write down some things that you love about yourself to remind you about the truest love that you have; love for yourself! This can be a super quick journal entry or a simple list in the notes app on your phone. 

3. Do an activity that YOU like to do 

It is common to become distracted by the stressors of life and the energies of other people. Choose to do an activity that you enjoy doing. Maybe you enjoy going to the gym and blasting some music in your ears to experience that adrenaline rush. Or, maybe you enjoy sitting down to a cup of coffee and reading a new book. Whatever you enjoy doing, do not hesitate to continue doing those activities you love on Valentine’s Day. 

4. Go for a walk and move your body! 

The best way to tap into your energy and love for yourself is when you are moving your body. Not only does exercise relieve stress, but it also enhances our attention and concentration. In other words, moving your body helps you become more present! A key to self-love is being present in your reality. So, get out there and move your body!

5. Cook yourself a healthy meal 

Eat well, feel well! Getting crafty in the kitchen is always a fun activity, but it is the end result of the healthy meal that you cook which truly makes a difference in fueling your body. My personal favorite recipe is a chicken and rice bowl with avocado and flax seeds. There are so many healthy recipes out there. Do some fun research and get cooking! 

It is important to remember that you can’t truly love someone else unless you love yourself first. Regardless of your Valentine’s Day plans, take some time to show yourself some self-love!