10 Purposeful Ways to Celebrate Valentine's Day
Valentine’s/Galentine’s Day is almost here…This day has become a significant commercial celebration of romance and love in many regions of the world. I am not a huge fan of Valentine’s day but I LOVE a good celebration. These days, I will take any celebration I can as I want to keep things positive in our home.
This day can be extremely difficult for many, especially this year as we may not be able to see our loved ones or friends. I think it’s important for us to take a moment and consume consciously, if you choose to consume. Perhaps it’s all about giving back in your community this year or taking an afternoon all to yourself with no guilt. There’s many ways to “celebrate” or treat yourself on Valentine’s Day that’s a little more purposeful. I wrote a list of my top 10:
Sucker for fresh flowers? I do love fresh or dried flowers in the home but ask questions at your local florist. Ex: where did they get them from? What are the farming conditions like? I have seen some local florists forage locally grown grasses and foliage and dye them with beet juice to have a natural pink bouquet!
Bake Cookies or your fave treat: Spend the day baking something you love and can enjoy. Perhaps it’s a family event in your household or you bake a few extras to drop off to friends and family at a distance. OOO and don’t forget about the fur babies! Make your own dog treats. ;)
3. Give back to your community: Maybe this is the year you start a tradition of making a donation on this day instead of consuming. Give back to your local food bank, women or men’s shelter or an animal shelter.
4. Choose an experience instead of gifts: Pack a picnic or book one with Vancouver Island Picnic Co, plan a romantic sunset walk or make a special meal for yourself.
5. Chocolate lover? Choose Fair Trade chocolate every time... PLEASE! ;)
6. Purchase an eco-conscious gift box: For yourself or do a gift exchange with friends this year. We love Farm & Folks Valentine’s boxes, all items made on Vancouver Island with love. You can reuse their gift boxes to keep all your soaps in too!
7. Grow your love all summer long! Celebrate by planning out your garden and visiting a local Garden Centre to purchase your seeds. Maybe you do a seed exchange with friends? West Coast Seeds are selling Dr. Bonnie Henry Pollinator Blend and they donate a portion of sales to the local food banks in Canada! It’s a win-win!
8. Sip cruelty free! If you choose to enjoy a glass of vino or two this weekend, choose a vegan wine and look for wineries that have sustainable practices like Blue Grouse Estate Winery on Vancouver Island.
9. Send an e-card to let someone know you’re thinking of them.
10. Bring the spa to you! Put on a face mask, enjoy a hot bath or cozy up and read beside a nice candle.
We can all use a little extra love right now so let’s spread the love! Don’t forget to love yourself first, don’t give into any Valentine’s pressures and let’s make this February 14th a little more purposeful!
