The Easiest Ways to Practice Self-Love This Valentine’s Day
When asked about who you love the most in your life, you can easily list your family, friends, S.O., pets, crushes and just about every present, important figure.
Often times, many of us forget to mention a very important person: ourselves.
We're quick to give everyone in our lives plenty of unconditional love, but the same can't be said when it comes to self-love.
There's no better day to fix this than Valentine's Day, a holiday dedicated to all forms of affection.
Whether you're single, taken or somewhere in between, below are a few ways you can practice self-love this Valentine's Day.
Start Your Day on a Positive Note
Chances are you'll wake up with a feeling of dread or nervousness on Valentine's Day, especially if you're single. Instead of letting those negative thoughts and feelings take over, kick off the day on a positive note by reciting a supportive and encouraging mantra.
This statement could be as simple or intricate as you want it to be, but be sure to keep it constructive.
As the day starts to drag on and you feel yourself turning into a pessimist, take a few minutes to recite your affirmation until you feel those bad vibes melt away.
Step Away From Social Media
Social media can be great, but more often than not, it wears a lot of us down. We find ourselves comparing our lives to those of others, wondering why we aren't as cool, pretty, skinny, happy, etc. as everyone else out there.
For one day only, take some time away from social media. You don't have to go the whole day without it, simply limit your time spent on Instagram, Twitter, Snapchat and Facebook.
You'll feel so much better when you focus on yourself and not what everyone else is up to this Valentine's Day.
(Riverdale via The CW)
Buy Yourself a Gift
Yes, we'd all love to have a partner who buys us a thoughtful gift on Valentine's Day, but sometimes you need to just purchase yourself a little trinket instead.
Give yourself some flowers, chocolates, stuffed animals or anything that'll make you beam with happiness. It doesn't need to be elaborate, just something you'll appreciate.
Don't pretend like it's from a secret admirer though, because then you'll only feel worse knowing it isn't. Plus, all of your besties will end up pestering you about it until you reveal the truth, making you appear as just a little too desperate.
Rather than go this route, own up to buying yourself a gift. Your peers will admire your honesty and confidence, inspiring them to do the same next year.
Go on a Solo Date
You don't need anyone to share a romantic Valentine's Day dinner with, other than yourself.
Take yourself out to your fave restaurant, or opt to order in if you want to avoid all the couples.
Devouring your go-to dish will make you feel all sorts of warm and cozy inside, instantly boosting your mood.
(New Girl via Fox)
Break Out the Sheet Masks and Bath Bombs
Keeping on trend with treating yourself, there's no better day to give your body some much needed TLC than Valentine's Day.
If you haven't had a chance to do a sheet mask or take a bath, set aside some time to do just that.
There really is nothing a sheet mask or bath bomb can't fix.
Take a Break
Use Valentine's Day to get away from everything that has been stressing you out recently. If that happens to be your BFF, S.O. or fam, spend some time away from them, too.
There's nothing selfish or shameful in being alone for a few hours of the day. Everybody needs their space once in a while, so take the holiday to be by yourself. You'll feel truly refreshed.
(Grown-ish via Freeform)
Celebrate Yourself
End your day by celebrating the most important person in your life: you.
Take some time to go over everything you accomplished today, no matter how small, and give yourself a pat on the back for doing an amazing job.
Whether you finished all of your homework in record time or stopped yourself from making a snarky remark about the cute couple strolling down the hallway, acknowledge all the great things you did before you call it a night.
Flying solo this Valentine's Day? HERE's why being single on the holiday is actually a good thing for your love life.