Something I’ve noticed in the past few years is how common it is for people to strongly dislike Valentine’s Day. I remember it being fun back in elementary school, like when we would trade candy and just get to do arts and crafts all day. And it was still a big deal in middle school when your secret admirer would leave a note in your locker or a girl would show up wearing a boy’s sweatshirt. But as I grew up it just started to seem like any other day. I would wear pink or red to be festive but other than that it was just February 14th. Suddenly last year in the middle of my junior year crisis, I came to a revelation. Who needs a Valentine anyway when all you need is yourself? Self care is so important, but it often gets overlooked during the hustle and bustle of everyday life. So why dread Valentine’s Day every year when all it is, is a perfect excuse to spend time on yourself?
Drawing a Bubble Bath
Turning the lights off, lighting candles, and putting on music while you soak in a bubble bath has got to be one of the most therapeutic experiences I could ever speak about. As I grew up and was always running around going to club meetings, after school practices, and activities with friends, I never had time for anything other than a quick shower to get washed up. But just taking an extra 10-15 minutes and taking a bubble bath is a game changer that nobody talks about enough.
Making Your Comfort Food
It sounds boring, but it can immediately put your mind at ease to spend time making your favorite meal. Whether it’s big and extra, or just a simple snack or dessert, there’s something so special about listening to yourself and making something specifically for you.
Cleaning Your Room
You might be thinking that my mom hijacked my Arrowhead account and wrote this in here but surprisingly this is genuine advice coming from a teenage girl. As hard as it might be to believe, I absolutely adore cleaning my room. I like to set a timer, open my windows, put away my clothes, make my bed, throw away trash and take care of any dishes, clean my mirror and desk, and by the end of it I feel like a completely new person.
Reading a Book
Reading is something that I wish I did more often. I was obsessed with reading when I was younger. Getting lost in another world and becoming one with the characters and the story was mesmerizing, and I don’t think there’s any other word to describe that. On days when I’m trying to be kind to myself and have “me” time I like to find a fun book and read a few chapters. Even if it’s only for half an hour, and even if I don’t ever pick up that book again, I am always glad that I spent my time reading rather than scrolling on my phone.
Journaling Gratitude
Instead of focusing on all of the things that you don’t have, and all of the things that you’re missing out on, instead focus on all of the things that you have in your life to be thankful for. Try writing them down so you can see a physical list of everything you DO have. There’s so much to be grateful for in life, and many people don’t realize that and take them for granted. Making this switch of a mindset is a crucial step when it comes to self care, and being your own Valentine!
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