Valentines, like other big holidays – New Years especially – was especially tough on me when I was single. Same for you, ?
I’m also someone who struggles with SAD (seasonal affective disorder), and so it would feel like a double whammy to get a day that celebrated love that just wasn’t happening mashed right into the middle of the deepest darkest coldest days of winter in the northern hemisphere.
Here are a few ways that helped me counter the effects of long-term solitude. And that didn’t involve internet dating, speed dating, blind dates, or dates at all.
5 ways to play on Valentine’s weekend:
Do what you love – and move that body
Plan an activity (hiking, snowshoeing, rock climbing) or a sports match (I’ve got tennis booked in) with someone you are evenly matched with. Smash it out on the court or field. Walk to your heart’s content – move. And enjoy the pure joy of being in your body.
Meet your erotic edge
Learn something new like pole dancing, a strip tease class, burlesque, belly dancing. The playground to safely explore expression is much more accessible and available than it ever has been. Take advantage and step in.
Community, community, community
I can’t say it enough. Surround yourself with either close friends who have positive vibes or with an extended network of people that feel fun to hang with. I know it’s not the same as the company that’s kept with an intimate other, but it sure as hell is helpful in feeling more human. Connection is key.
Indulge your 5 senses
Yes, a beauuuuutiful warm soothing Ayurvedic massage, your fav Spotify list of gentle melodious hang drum beats, a box of your favourite champagne truffles, a colourful bouquet of blooms that you know one day will be gifted to you – for now gift yourself. Move through all 5 of those gorgeous senses of yours.
Take yourself on a date and love yourself down
No time like the present in making way for the future. Got a play you’ve been wanting to see for ages (tickets for 1 are easier to find)? Or an obscure museum you’ve been meaning to visit? Then mosey on over to a lovely little cafe with some scrumptious looking cakes you’ve been wanting to try forever. The focus is on you here, but there’s no rule against making eyes with your fellow caffeine consumers. Just for fun.
The point in all of this: we’re lifting you all up so you feel good body, heart, mind, soul just as you would were you to already have what you want. Know it’s coming. And in the meantime, live life as if it’s already here – full and lush.
PS. Roadmap to Relationships is a group coaching course that’s there to help you take the first step and then the next, towards love.
PPS. If group coaching isn’t for you but you still want help when it comes to relationships and intimacy, get in touch and learn how private coaching can help you create healthy, nourishing long-term love that lasts.