By: Annie Kleier

No date this Valentine’s Day? No problem! Put the most important relationship first on Feb. 14– the one with yourself! Take advantage of the day by celebrating self-love and self-discovery. Embrace singular joy and unapologetic independence. Dive into the art of celebrating yourself with these fulfilling activities that will bring your frown upside down.

Self Care Night

Treat yourself to a spa night this Valentine’s! Slip into comfortable attire and dim the lights. Who doesn’t love a good candlelight setting? Consider essential oils as aromatherapy as you listen to relaxing and comforting music. Take a warm shower or bath with your favorite soaps, followed by a soothing and nourishing face mask. If you want to go all out, experiment with sliced cucumbers over your eyes for the extra zen!

Practice meditation by focusing on inner self-reflection. Deep breathing and a self-care journal might be for you! Jot down positive affirmations to yourself and brainstorm your incredible accomplishments. What are you grateful for? What are you most proud of? Who has been the greatest inspiration and cheerleader for you? 

Art Night

Are you feeling artsy? Unwind through the power of creativity! Throw on your favorite music playlist, rummage your pantry for snacks and beverages, and gather any supplies you might need to let your imagination loose. Some ideas are as follows: 

  • Look up and print out coloring pages to fill in with pencils, markers, or crayons. You might also browse the App Store and find any digital coloring sheets to do on your phone.  
  • Find paints, paintbrushes, and paper. Experiment with watercolor, acrylic, and oil paints to create a masterpiece to hang! Your empty walls will thank you. 
  • Try your hand at a collage. Begin by hunting for any loose scraps or throw-away magazines. Tear up these materials and glue them together to design your own poster. 

Self-Movie Night

Lights, camera, action! Get your popcorn ready and grab the TV remote. Tonight is all about what YOU want to watch. Set up a quiet space with lots of soft and cozy blankets. Do you prefer action movies or romantic comedies? What is your favorite comfort movie? Below are six great movie ideas for a fun-filled night:

  • 50 First Dates (2004)
  • He’s Just Not Into You (2009)
  • How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days (2003)
  • The Notebook (2004)
  • The Proposal (2009)
  • Ten Things I Hate About You (1999)

Enjoy the Company of Other Singles

Join other singles for a fun dinner or game night this Valentine’s Day. Celebrate love and friendship with company. Plan a party with your friends. Crack open a good board game, dig out your old playing cards, and spend the night laughing with friendly competition. 

Solo Adventure Day 

Soar on a solo adventure this Feb. 14! Whitewater offers many fun and exciting opportunities for self-exploration. Stop by art galleries in Whitewater, such as Roberta’s Art Gallery, the Crossman Gallery, Studio 84, and the Whitewater Arts Alliance. Swing by Cravath Lake or Starin Park for a nice solo picnic. Say hello to community members as you wander the local shops of downtown Whitewater. In the worst-case scenario, you can always explore Walmart’s aisles!

It is important to practice self-love everyday, not just Valentine’s Day. Whether you partake in a self-care night, art night, movie night, solo adventure, or if you plan to enjoy the company of friends, remember that the most important relationship is the one with yourself. Cheers to you and Happy Valentine’s Day!