5 Small Ways to Practice Self-Love This Valentine’s Day

Valentine’s Day often centers on showing love to others, but it can also be a meaningful opportunity to show care and compassion toward yourself. At North Central Health Care, we believe self-love does not have to be extravagant. Sometimes the smallest gestures can have the biggest impact on your mental wellbeing.

Here are five ways to practice self-love this Valentine's Day.

Take Yourself on a “Date”
Spending intentional time with yourself can help strengthen self-awareness and reduce stress. This might look like cooking a favorite meal, enjoying a quiet lunch, or taking a walk without distractions. Slowing down and enjoying this time mindfully can help reduce stress and create a sense of comfort and routine.
Write Yourself a Love Note
It might feel unusual at first, but writing a short note to yourself can be a powerful exercise in self-compassion. Try writing down a few things you are proud of, qualities you appreciate about yourself, or challenges you have overcome. This exercise supports self-compassion and can reduce negative self-talk.
Give Yourself a Small Valentines Gift
It could be your favorite chocolate, a book you’ve been wanting to read, or even a bouquet of flowers. Giving yourself a small gift is a way of acknowledging that you deserve kindness and joy, even if no one else is doing the gifting.
Create a Cozy Night In
Rest is an essential part of mental health. Consider creating a calm evening for yourself, whether that means watching a favorite movie, taking a warm bath, or simply unplugging for a while. Giving yourself permission to slow down can help regulate emotions and prevent burnout.
Check in With Your Heart and Mind
Valentine’s Day can bring up a mix of emotions, especially for those experiencing loneliness, stress, or loss. Take a few minutes to reflect on how you are really feeling. Journaling, talking with someone you trust, or reaching out for professional support are all meaningful ways to care for your mental health.

At North Central Health Care, we believe that taking care of your mental health is one of the most important forms of self-love. If you or someone you care about is struggling, you do not have to navigate it alone. Our mental health services support individuals and families across Marathon, Lincoln, and Langlade counties, and we are here to help connect you with the care and resources you need. Reaching out for support is a meaningful step toward wellbeing, today and any day of the year.