Love Yourself, Valentine

Valentine's Day is one of those made-up holidays, you know.  Not that I'm totally cynical and I'm not giving them back if my sweetheart gives me flowers or a gift...come on.  But, it's really a good time to think about loving yourself.  Yes, you should think about others and you should totally give love away, but you should also take a moment and give some love to yourself.  February is American Heart Month, so do something good for you! 



Here are five ideas:

1. Nourish your body: Eat a really healthy meal, something with lots of color and flavor and nutrients.  This will give you energy for the rest of your V-Day.  ;)
2. Be mindful about food: Visit a farmer's market or spend some quality time in the produce department of your local grocery - pick out something special for yourself, like a perfectly ripe avocado, sweet juicy pear or a beautiful ruby-red pomegranate.  Or, treat yourself to a whole plate of deliciousness like the one here.  Eat it slowly.
3. Spend time with a friend: Make a call, drop on in or schedule a date with a friend.  It doesn't have to be romantic, but it does have to be with someone you love.  <3
4. Practice self-awareness: Write yourself a love letter.  Imagine what you would write to you, if you weren't you.  Sounds crazy, but it's a great activity.  We are often much more loving to others than we are to ourselves, so practice a little grace with yourself.
5. Move your body: Take a walk, go for a run, swim or jump rope.  Whatever you like to do to move your muscles and feel alive...do it! Your heart will be happier when it's pumping and your feet will be happy to be useful. 
   

Bonus - Connect with God: Give yourself permission to be still.  Relax.  Meditate on love, pray and give thanks for the love in your life, connect with the source of all love through Jesus Christ.  Jeremiah 31:3