Love a Little
It seemed only appropriate to have this month’s post reflect on Valentines Day and this period in time focused on love and relationships. Whether you are in a romantic relationship or are not currently involved with a partner, there are many interpretations of the holiday and ways to partake in festivities.
Valentine’s Day celebrations are personal and can look different across individual situations. Relationship status, personal beliefs, interpersonal relationships, mental wellbeing and other factors play a role in how you will view the holiday and if you will engage in any activities regarding it. Valentine’s Day is a holiday that is largely influenced by society and the media’s view of romantic relationships. Many view the holiday as a celebration between intimate partners, though there are so many additional ways the holiday can be viewed and celebrated.
If you are in a romantic relationship, make attempts to celebrate the day in ways other than material gifts. It is easy to get caught up in the fun of shopping and purchasing gifts for a partner but challenge yourself to celebrate the day in ways other than exchanging gifts. Since we are living in an age of social distancing, try and plan a fun night in with your partner. Try new experiences like making a new recipe together, watching a new movie or reliving your favorite memories together. Make a new tradition of exchanging time rather than material gifts this year.
If you are not in a romantic relationship at this time, don’t worry, Valentine’s Day can still be special. Challenge yourself to view the holiday in broader terms than just a day to celebrate romantic relationships, rather, a day to celebrate all of the relationships in your life. In addition to your partner (should you have one), when was the last time you told your friends and family how much they mean to you? When was the last time you reached out to those closest to you to appreciate them for who they are and what they mean to you? Take some time this February to express to those in your life how much they mean to you and how much you care about them and their wellbeing.
Whether you have a partner or not, here are some ways to enjoy Valentines Day this year:
Send a card (or even a text) to somebody who you love
Zoom or FaceTime somebody special to catch up
Send a delivery (flowers or sweets) to someone you care about
Leave Valentines on co-workers desks (remember the ones from elementary school?)
Additionally, as we discuss showing our love to other people, don't forget to show yourself some love and appreciation as well. Take some time for yourself to rest and rejuvenate, you deserve some love too. In addition to telling your loved ones how much they mean to you, take some time to appreciate yourself for all that you have accomplished and anything else that you have done recently. Spend some quality time with yourself and tell yourself all about the love and appreciation you have towards yourself. Sit back, relax, and buy yourself that expensive Starbucks drink you usually avoid because today is the day!
Be sure to check out our NJE podcast to hear a live discussion regarding Valentine’s Day and celebrations. As always, please reach out to us via our Instagram or on our website and share how you celebrated loved this year.
