As Valentines Day approaches… it’s easy to feel lonely and long for companionship, especially in ‘lockdown season 3’.
Society is especially dominated by media hype right now.
So being flooded with relationship content could be hard to deal with, especially when the constant on and off of lockdown restrictions has driven many couples to split and prevented so many relationships from blossoming naturally.
When single, it’s often assumed that we’re in a ‘waiting stage’ and ‘looking’ for someone else to complete us.
But we wanted to take a moment to pause and reflect amidst all this romantic pressure that takes over the airways and social feeds this time of year; and say: it’s okay to be single too!
So here’s Purple Revolver’s top 5 tips to practice self love this Valentines:
1. Mindfulness/ Meditation
In ‘The Little Book of Mindfulness’ by Dr Patrizia Collard talks about the benefits of mindfulness and meditation, such as:
Increased self confidence and acceptance.
Higher levels of energy and enthusiasm for living.
Compassion for the self and others.
2. Self-care/spa day
Draw yourself a bubble bath with essential oils, bath salts.
Apply a facemask.
And finally turn on your favourite playlist.
3. Self help books/ podcasts
One of the best ways to practice self love is to work on your mind, future and career. My favourite trick to cope with lockdown has been reading self help books and listening to self-help podcasts. It will help make you feel in control in an uncontrollable situation
’Women Don’t Owe You Pretty’ by Florence Given. Don’t let the title fool you, this book is for all genders. It is a great way of learning more about feminism, ageism and much more.
‘How To Get Over A Boy’ by Chidera Eggerue. This is another helpful book to read so close to Valentine’s day. According to a review ‘She will equip you with tangible and applicable solutions for every part of your dating life, helping you recognise that men hold as much power in our romantic lives as we grant them.’
‘Shameless’ with Zara McDonald and Michelle Andrew if one I have been listening to recently. They interview inspiring people such as Yassmin Abdel Magied, Bonnie Rebecca and Alyce Tran.
‘Stuff you should know’ by iHeart Radio covers a range of educational topics, such as: chaos theory, stonewall uprising, electoral votes, crimes and much more.
4. Take yourself on a date
Throw on your favourite outfit and take pictures in i to appreciate yourself.
Cook yourself your favourite meal. If you don’t know how to cook then youtube has so many tutorials on this!
Give yourself a gift! This is my favorite part. Treat yourself to a new outfit, or book or plant or a new room decor. And finally watch a ‘feel good’ movie with snacks to end your self-date.
5. Start a journal
Writing in a journal is a great way to inspire creativity, boost your memory and talk about your feelings. Reflecting back on what you feel could help you deal with the negative side of your thoughts.