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Illinois | Style > Beauty

The Perfect Self-Care Valentine’s Day

Mia Kowalsky Student Contributor, University of Illinois - Urbana-Champaign
This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at Illinois chapter and does not reflect the views of Her Campus.

Valentine’s Day doesn’t have to be about roses from someone else or a picture-perfect date. It can be about you. Your peace, your joy, your healing and your rest. The perfect Valentine’s Day isn’t about being chosen, it’s about choosing yourself. This year, let’s create a version of the holiday that actually feels good. Here’s how to show up for yourself this Valentine’s.

Take care of your body:

Everyone loves a long, everything shower with a nice body scrub and a playlist custom-made to fit the mood. Whether you are spending the day pampering yourself or eventually meeting with loved ones, the perfect way to begin your Valentine’s Day starts with a long, relaxing shower. Of course, after your long shower, another perfect way to take care of yourself is to focus on your skin, from body lotions to face masks; take this day as an opportunity to pamper your skin. No matter how you spend the day, one of the best ways to feel your best in your skin is to wear a cozy or empowering outfit. If you are looking to spend the night in, nothing feels better than a cozy matching pair of pajamas and fuzzy socks with slippers. If your ideal day ends with a night out, wear that outfit that gets you compliments, wear that expensive perfume and try that new hairstyle you’ve been keeping safe for the perfect night.

Take care of your Heart:

Most importantly, this Valentine’s Day, prioritize your heart. Write a love letter to yourself focusing on all the positive impacts you’ve made and all the people whose lives you’ve touched. Take some time to reflect on your personal growth since last year at this time. Write about all the friends you’ve made, things you’ve learned and more. Be sure to forgive yourself for your past relationships and mistakes. Look at your past, not with a negative lens, but as an opportunity for growth and change.

Some Solo Date Ideas:

This Valentine’s Day, spend some time with yourself, learn more about yourself, treat yourself and enjoy your company. Find one of your favorite movies and spend a cozy night in with all of your favorite snacks and face masks. Treat yourself and go out to your favorite coffee shop or bookstore and splurge. Buy that cake pop you’ve always wanted to try or the book you’ve always wanted to read. Have some creative time and put on your favorite playlist, curate a new Pinterest board, buy a new journal and begin a daily journal of thoughts. Maybe even buy yourself some paints and create a painting of your favorite movie. Go out and buy the ingredients for your favorite meal, including dessert, and learn how to handmade pasta. However you choose to spend your Valentine’s Day this year, make sure that you prioritize yourself and your needs! Have a great Valentine’s Day, ladies!

Mia Kowalsky

Illinois '27

psychology major! junior! excited to be here and be a part of her campus!