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UC Riverside | Wellness

How I Celebrate Self Love on Valentine’s Day!

Sofia Davis Student Contributor, University of California - Riverside
This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at UC Riverside chapter and does not reflect the views of Her Campus.

Valentine’s Day, the most heart shaped day of the year – a celebration dedicated to couples filled with flowers, hearts and chocolates  With all the emphasis on couples, it’s easy to feel like it’s a day meant for everyone except those of us flying solo. But here’s the thing: Valentine’s Day doesn’t have to be about romantic love. It can also be a celebration of self-love, friendship, and personal happiness.   

If you’re spending this Valentine’s Day on your own, it’s the perfect opportunity to focus on yourself, show yourself some affection, and indulge in activities that bring you joy. After all, the most important relationship you’ll ever have is the one with yourself.

Here are some ideas to make the most of Valentine’s Day, even if you’re celebrating solo:

1. Pamper Yourself with a Spa Day at Home

A spa day at home is the ultimate way to unwind and indulge in self-care on Valentine’s Day. You don’t need to book an expensive appointment at a salon—transform your bathroom with soothing music, candles, and your favorite bath products. Start by drawing a warm bath with bath salts or oils that will leave your skin feeling soft and nourished. You can also pamper your skin with a luxurious face mask or scrub, followed by moisturizing treatments to keep your skin glowing. For an extra treat, give yourself a manicure or pedicure while sipping on a relaxing tea or indulging in your favorite chocolate. A spa day is the perfect opportunity to slow down, focus on relaxation, and give yourself the love and attention you deserve this Valentine’s Day. 

2. Host a Galentines Party

Hosting a Galentine’s Day party is the perfect way to celebrate the amazing women in your life and show them how much they mean to you. Female friendships are the most important foundation anyone can have. When you may feel sad on Valentine’s Day because you do not have a romantic lover, turn to your friends because you always have each other.  Even if there are only two of you, you can still celebrate with each other. There are so many ways to host a Galentines party- my favorite way is to put on a movie, decorate cookies, and just dance the night away.  

3. Cook/Bake Your Favorite Meal or Treat

Preparing your favorite meal or dessert at home is a wonderful way to celebrate Valentine’s Day. The act of cooking allows you to create a personalized and intimate experience, whether you’re dining solo or with loved ones. My favorite place to find new recipes is Pinterest! The treats I am planning on making are love letter pastries (puff pastry with jam) and Gigi Hadid’s infamous Vodka pasta.

Valentine’s Day isn’t just for romantic love—it’s an opportunity to celebrate all forms of love, including the most important one of all: the love you have for yourself. Whether it’s through reflection, self-care, or treating yourself to something special, this day is a reminder of how worthy you are of love, care, and attention.

So, this Valentine’s Day, take the time to show yourself the love you deserve. Embrace your individuality, celebrate your strength, and enjoy the beautiful person you are. You’re not just enough—you’re more than enough, and that’s something worth celebrating every day.

Sofia Davis

UC Riverside '28

Hi everyone! My name is Sofia and I am currently a first year Pre-Business student at UCR! I am interested in the fields of finance and/or marketing in hopes to become an attorney later on! Outside of academics, I love listening to music (specifically Taylor Swift), baking, and reading.