Valentine’s Day is traditionally dedicated to romantic love, and showing appreciation for someone you admire.
But Valentine’s can also be a chance to show love and appreciation for OURSELVES!
After all, the more we take care of ourselves the better equipped we’ll be to take care of others.
So this year, take care of your own needs this Valentine’s Day with these four self-care tips:
Look, I know the idea of taking a cold shower sounds like a TERRIBLE idea. But hear me out.
Taking a cold shower (or a cold plunge, if you’re feeling REALLY brave) has been shown to improve circulation, boost the immune system, and even help with depression and anxiety.
In fact, a study by Dutch scientists found that taking cold showers released a flood of “feel good” hormones, improved people’s health and led to fewer days off work<><>.
In other words, taking a cold shower may feel miserable for the first few seconds.
But afterwards, it makes you healthier and happier!
It’s often the simple pleasures that are the best. And it doesn’t get much simpler than putting on some walking shoes and going for a hike.
Scientists can’t explain why being in nature is so good for us.
But being surrounded by nature and greenery helps to relieve tension, lift your mood and improve brain function. It can even improve your heart rate and blood pressure.
A study published in the Nature journal found that people who spent more time in nature had lower levels of stress and a happier outlook.2
Do you ever find yourself so busy that you never have time to think? Let alone think about the things in your life you’re grateful for?
So this Valentine’s, consider taking five minutes out of your day to drink some calming green tea and write a list of the things in life you’re grateful for.
This could be the love of your partner, spending quality time with the grandchildren, having financial security, or being in good health.
Whatever it is in life that makes you feel contented and happy, take a moment to focus on being grateful. And you may be surprised how much it improves your mood.
In fact, the benefits of gratitude were proven in a study published in the Journal of Positive Psychology.3 In the study they found that people who practiced gratitude enjoyed happier moods and improved well-being.
It can seem impossible to avoid digital devices these days.
Our phones are constantly beeping and demanding our attention, with endless emails, social media updates and messages from friends.
The good news is that even a short digital detox can work wonders for your stress levels and inner peace.
According to research by The Cleveland Clinic, taking a digital detox can result in improved sleep quality, reduced stress and a better sense of well-being.4
Take care of yourself so you can take better care of others
Many of us need to show ourselves more self-love. And to allow ourselves more time to focus on our emotional needs and inner peace.
So this Valentine’s Day, consider leaving your phone on silent, taking a walk in your local park and taking time out to think of things in your life you’re grateful for.
Because remember, by taking better care of ourselves we can be better equipped to express love and care for others. Which is what Valentine’s Day is all about.
