Oooh romance is in the air. February is here, which means so is Valentine’s Day.
Chocolates, wine, romantic Italian dinners, and then maybe even some more deserts!
Or you could be the other side of the love story…
Tubs of ice cream, a box of pizza for 1, twizzlers, and tears.
Nowadays, Valentine’s isn’t just one day to show your significant other you love them. No no, it has become an entire affair. Similar to Halloween, once February rolls in the grocery stores are stocked with chocolates, candy, drinks, flowers, and all decor red and pink! There is also the pressure we might feel to be in our “prettiest” shape in order to attract someone, because of the expectations that surround us in our daily conversations and on social media. Not only that, but it has become a shaming experience for those who may not have a partner…with the romantic movies, pity food to help deal with the loneliness, social media comparisons, and so on.
Here are some quick things to think about this Valentine’s Day to help you continue being mindful, intuitive, respectful to your body, and loving of yourself:
1- Feel Your Emotions: It is important to recognize your emotions and understand them. Sit, mediate, and consider how to mindfully respond to those. Valentines might be hard for you because you just fell out of an important relationship. And you’re sad. That is okay. It is okay to not feel okay. Your feelings and your experiences are valid.
2- Do the Things that Make You Feel Loved: Whether its going for a walk, painting, cooking, reading, whatever! What makes you smile? What brings you joy? What eases your mind? Whatever it may be, make time for those activities in your day. Self love and self acceptance is so powerful, and it is equally as challenging. But this is a stepping stone to feeling love and encouraged through an action that supports you. Just like any holiday, don’t hone in on the food. You have the power to reorient the mindset onto an activity, gifts, or even no celebration if that helps release stress and anxiety around Valentine’s Day.
3- Eat what you want: An important part of self love is to let go of the diet mentality and restrictions. As I’ve touched on in the past, eat intuitively and mindfully. Ask yourself, do I actually want to eat this? Is this what I think I should be eating or is this what I am truly desiring? Am I actually hungry or am I bored? Sad? Alone? It is important to think about these things and eat what you want and enjoy it! All foods fit no matter the occasion.
Five Heart Healthy Foods to Show your Body love this holiday
1- Leafy Greens: Such as spinach, kale, collard greens, etc. These are know for all of their vitamins, antioxidants, and minerals. They have shown to reduce blood pressure and improve functions of the cells lining blood vessels.
2- Berries: Such as strawberries, blueberries, blackberries, and raspberries. These are super packaged with nutrients and antioxidants, which help reduce inflammation.
3- Dark Chocolate: YES chocolate! Dark chocolate is rich in antioxidants which boosts heart health.
4- Avocados: Avocados are a great source of healthy monounsaturated fats, which reduce cholesterol levels which are great for your heart.
5- Nuts: Specifically some walnuts or almonds are great for heart health. They are great sources of fat, fiber, and micronutrients.
At the end of the day, Valentines day is just another day. Another day to fuel your body well, move, and love yourself. If you are is need of a dietitian’s help, support, or are struggling with your eating habits, please connect with us! You are reach us through our website, Instagram, Facebook, or comment below!
Written by Madalyn Roehrig - Dietetic Intern