Valentine’s Day as it Relates to Just You!
Valentine’s Day is traditionally seen as a day to celebrate romantic love, which can be difficult for some and even triggering due to societal expectations that this be about “being with someone.” Perhaps it is the perfect time to make it about focusing on self-care and self-love. Reframing this holiday as a personal celebration of yourself can be deeply fulfilling, allowing you to nurture your well-being and appreciate who you are without relying on external validation.
First, If this is an emotional holiday for you or you find yourself being triggered, set boundaries by taking yourself off social media or skipping events that don’t align with your values for this day. Then, make a conscientious decision to choose activities and spaces that help you feel supported and loved.
Here are some ideas.
Valentine’s Day is about love, and that includes self-love. Put into practice some rituals to make the day about self-love. First consider using this day to reflect on your strengths, achievements, and the things you appreciate about yourself. This practice can boost your self-esteem and reinforce a positive self-image. Sit down and write yourself a love letter, listing all the things you cherish about yourself.
Plan a way to pamper yourself that makes you feel good. Perhaps it is taking a quiet, luxurious bath, treating yourself to your favorite meal, or spending time doing something creative or relaxing. Dedicating intentional time for self-pampering can help you recharge and anchor the idea of prioritizing yourself without guilt.
This would also be a good holiday to take time to practice gratitude for the things you love about your life. Reflect on what brings you joy—whether it is your health, your talents, or the relationships you have. This can be a grounding practice. As I said in the last issue, gratitude cultivates a sense of abundance and self-satisfaction, which fosters an even deeper sense of contentment, even developing pathways in the brain for more happiness and contentment.
Use the day to engage in self-care practices that uplift your mind, body, and spirit. This might include meditation, yoga, journaling, or even watching a movie that makes you happy. Focus on nurturing yourself mentally and emotionally, reinforcing the idea that you deserve love from yourself as much as from anyone else.
Or you can focus on growth and healing. Sometimes, self-care isn’t about indulgence; it’s about growth. Use the day to focus on the emotional growth you would like to have in your life, whether it is letting go of negative self-talk or developing healthier habits. Give yourself the gift of committing to self-improvement and healing in a gentle, compassionate way.
By making Valentine’s Day a day for self-care, you are celebrating the most important relationship you have—the one with yourself. After all, this is our most significant work, so it is worthy of a day to celebrate.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Janie Pfeifer Watson
Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker
Licensed Independent Mental Health Practitioner- Janie Pfeifer Watson, LICSW, is the founder and director of Wholeness Healing Center, a mental health practice in Grand Island, Nebraska with remote sites in Broken Bow and Kearney. Her expertise encompasses a broad range of areas, including depression, anxiety, attachment and bonding, coaching, couples work, mindfulness, trauma, and grief. She views therapy as an opportunity to learn more about yourself as you step more into being your authentic self. From her perspective this is part of the spiritual journey; on this journey, she serves as a mirror for her clients as they get to know themselves—and, ultimately, to love themselves.
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