Wellbeing Wednesdays: 10 ways to practice self-love this Valentine’s Day

As we approach Valentine’s season, it is more evident than ever that love holds a crucial part in our lives. However, people tend to forget that love comes in all forms, not just from romantic relationships. So, whether in a romantic relationship or single, it is important to recognise all types of love in our lives. Arguably, the most important relationship is the one we have with ourselves, and so, self-love may just be the first step in celebrating love this season. Keep reading to find out how to take the pressure away from finding a romantic love this Valentine’s Day and how to develop self-love practices of your own. Whatever your relationship status, Valentine’s Day activities do not just have to be reserved to celebrate your love for someone else. Here is the ultimate guide to Valentine’s self-love activities.

Who says that flowers should only be received?

1. Make a good breakfast
What better way to start off the day than with your favourite breakfast meal or a fun new recipe? It could be some heart-shaped pancakes or a new style of eggs – the key is to make something that will not only fuel you for the rest of the day but will also make you smile in the morning.

2. Buy yourself flowers
Who says that flowers should only be received? I personally love picking myself out a new bunch and using them to brighten up my room. Not only is it so much fun choosing ones that you love, but it will be a reminder in your room of a small act of self-love to yourself.

3. Write down self-gratitude
Self-gratitude has lots of benefits in all aspects of your wellbeing. It has been said to change your mindset and help you live a more positive, fulfilling life. Show yourself some appreciation by writing down three things that you are grateful for or things that you have done well this week.

4. Put on an outfit that you love
Dressing nicely always makes me feel more put-together and generally happier. Even if you aren’t necessarily going anywhere, putting on an outfit that you feel comfortable in and that you love will truly make your day better. Spending time with yourself to choose the outfit and loving the outcome that you see in the mirror is an act of self-love in itself.

5. Listen to a podcast
Take some time out of your day to listen to an episode of a podcast. It doesn’t necessarily need to be centred around self-love but can just be something that puts a smile on your face. An all-time favourite of mine is The Girl’s Bathroom as it creates such a lovely space and always makes me laugh.

Sharing love with those around us not only improves their happiness but also creates a more positive mood for the one showing the appreciation

6. Take yourself out on a date
This may seem daunting at first, but I promise once you do it you will be so happy. It can be just as simple as taking yourself out for coffee and cake for an hour.

7. Tell people around you that you appreciate them
Sharing love with those around us not only improves their happiness but also creates a more positive mood for the one showing the appreciation. Either in person, over text, or by calling someone – tell them something that you love about them.

8. Cook your favourite meal
Cooking and eating is a great way to lift your mood for any day. This Valentine’s why not cook your comfort meal or favourite dish to enjoy in the evening? Whether it’s steak or something simple that you still love, make it for yourself.

9. Invite your friends over for a Galentine’s or Palentine’s evening
This is a fun spin on the pressure of Valentine’s Day for many. Spending time with friends and arranging time to do fun activities is a great way to spend Valentine’s Day.

10. Do something you love but don’t do enough
We all have that one hobby we do not spend enough time doing. Carve some time out of your Valentine’s Day to do something that you truly love. It could be exercising, knitting, or reading –  whatever you genuinely love.

Making at least some time on Valentine’s Day for a self-love activity is very important for our general wellbeing. Valentine’s Day is a great day to start off your self-love journey and many of these activities can be continued throughout the year. Happy self-love Valentine’s Day!