So, that dreaded Remind-You-That-You’re-Single’s Day, otherwise known as Valentine’s Day, has come ‘round again. If you have endured one too many of these yearly run-ins with co-workers receiving surprise roses, friends gushing over their extravagant dinner plans with their boyfriends, and romance movie specials on TV all while you are left alone with nothing but a gallon of ice cream and a Hallmark “Be Mine” card from Grandma, then you along with many others are currently mentally preparing themselves for this year’s Valentine’s Day.
But instead of giving into self-pity and drinking an entire bottle of wine while listening to sappy love songs and stalking your exes on Facebook, save yourself a night of misery and do these three things.
1. Pass out cards.
Remember Valentine’s Day when you were a kid? Your mom took you to the store to pick out the perfect box of cards, candy, and stickers to pass out to your classmates. You would secretly save the best one for the boy you had a crush on and write a little something extra on it. Why not relive those days? Go buy a box of fun kids cards or make your own and pass them out during the day to your friends, that nice RA in your residence hall, the smiling Barista at Starbucks who remembers your custom drink order, and don’t forget that cute, mysterious guy in your Psychology class you’ve had your eye on! Giving to others will not only make them feel noticed and appreciated but also make you feel good. Plan to wear a sexy Valentine’s Day themed outfit to show people you don’t need a significant other to have a reason to dress up. Being positive, playful, and joyful shows good character and class. Dressing like you’re a widow in mourning will only make you look pitiful and unapproachable.
2. Plan a nice dinner for yourself.
Go all out! Who says someone else should cook for you on Valentine’s Day? Use those tips you picked up from Mom over the years and cook your favorite creamy chicken pasta dish and of course, dessert! Eating by yourself doesn’t have to be sad and lonely. Light some mood-enhancing candles, play some upbeat tunes, and sing as loud as you freakin’ can because your roommates aren’t home to complain.
3. Pamper yourself.
After your belly is full and satisfied, use the rest of the night for a little self-rejuvenation. Take a steamy, sudsy bath and add bath oil to the water for a relaxing, skin-softening experience. Apply a refreshing minty facemask. Exfoliate and moisturize your body and learn the art of self-massage. Put on a comfy pair of pajamas and pull your hair out your face. Make some space and find a free yoga and meditation session on YouTube. Yoga is not only recognized for its array of health benefits including flexibility, strength, balance, posture, and better breathing, but also for its ability to calm the mind and spirit, lifting your mood, relieving tension, and helping you to relax. So, get out a mat and practice those moves. End the night with a new movie (not a romantic comedy) under a blanket with some of your favorite treats. Indulge in a bowl of popcorn, a couple glasses of wine in a glass you decorated yourself, and get that big fancy box of chocolates. Because who doesn’t eat chocolate on Valentine’s Day? Chocolate triggers the release of endorphins in the brain, you know, those things that make you feel happy.
So, now that you have a game plan for your single’s day celebration, go ahead and start planning. Get excited about it. Love yourself, so that others can love you, and be your own Valentine!