Healthy Valentine’s Day… 20 Ways to Treat Yo’ Self
“Treat Yo’ Self!” Here are 20 healthy Valentine’s Day treats…
1. Wear the most comfortable robe or polar fleece you can find.
No explanation necessary.
2. Enjoy Bulletproof Dark Chocolate.
Unlike most dark chocolate at your local grocery store, Bulletproof Chocolate Fuel Bars are over 80% cacao (made from organic cacao beans and cacao butter) and have no sugar or artificial sweeteners. This dark chocolate is a guilt-free, HEALTHY Valentine’s Day treat that will satisfy your cravings.
3. Sing.
You don’t have to be good. Singing releases endorphins, which makes you feel happy and less stressed. It also teaches you to have healthier breathing patterns. Put on your radio and sing along if you want to enhance mental awareness, memory, and concentration. It’s even better if you can sing with a group to feel a sense of community.
4. Go to the Farmer’s Market.
If you are lucky enough to have a local farmers market year-round, go! It is a fun way to save money on high-quality food, connect with your local farmers, and get outside.
5. Take an epsom salt bath.
Epsom salt is high in magnesium, a mineral necessary for muscle control, elimination of harmful toxins, and more. By taking epsom salt baths, you can boost your magnesium and sulfate levels. The Epsom Salt Industry Council lists the following as benefits from proper magnesium and sulfate levels: reduced inflammation, improved absorption of nutrients, preventing or easing of migraine headaches, improved ability for the body to use insulin (reducing severity of diabetes), and improved circulatory health (reducing irregular heartbeats).
6. Hangout with your pet (or someone else’s pet).
Petting an animal releases oxytocin, the “trust hormone.” Snuggling with your pet is a great way to combat stress.
7. A weird suggestion: Watch your favorite musician’s concert on DVD.
One of my favorite things to do when I want to escape the world is watch Madonna’s Sticky and Sweet Tour (random, I know). Get your favorite singer/band’s live tour on DVD, turn it up, enjoy, and sing along. It’s like you’re at a concert in the comfort of your own home.
8. Go for a walk.
I’ve said it before, I am the #1 fan of nature walks. It’s how I de-stress, practice gratitude, and access presence. Try it for yourself or find an activity that has the same effects for you.
9. Put on a face mask.
My FAVORITE face mask is the Alitura Clay Mask because of its unique, natural ingredients like freshwater pearl powder, rhassoul clay, American ginseng, organic kelp powder, etc. I mix it with raw apple cider vinegar, which is also very good for your skin. If you don’t want to purchase a fancy mask, you can always make your own at home.
10. Go to the bookstore.
Anyone else find Barnes and Nobel relaxing? I could browse for hours in there.
11. Have a cup of tea.
My favorite earthy tea is Japanese Pu-erh tea. It has been known to have fat-burning effects. If you’re looking for a caffeine-free tea, try Turmeric Ginger tea. Turmeric and ginger are anti-inflammatory and good for digestion. Turmeric has also been found to reduce LDL (bad cholesterol). Tea can boost exercise endurance, help your body fight free radicals, and promote brain health.
12. Play a game.
Heads Up (available on your iPhone), Scattergories, Cards Against Humanity, Catch Phrase, and Rummikub are some of my favorites…
13. Use aromatherapy.
I love using lavender oil to calm down before bed, peppermint oil during the day to keep me alert and focused, and eucalyptus if I feel congested. Aromatherapy can be a great way to boost your mood, energy, and immune system.
14. Lie down for a few minutes.
If you’re sitting or standing all day, sometimes it’s nice to give your back and hip flexors a break by laying down flat on your back. Take a break mid-day to focus on your breathing & relax.
15. Warm up with Bulletproof hot chocolate.
Made from organic cacao beans and cacao butter, this decadent beverage is rich in polyphenols, a type of antioxidant that can boost longevity. You can have a healthy Valentine’s day, but still indulge.
16. Try reflexology.
It is a type of massage used to relieve tension and prevent illness, based on the idea that there are reflex points on our feet, head, and hands linked to every part of the body. Benefits include its ability to stimulate nerve function, boost circulation, induce a deep state of relaxation, and eliminate toxins.
17. Take a day off from wearing eye makeup and contacts.
There’s no scientific reason behind this recommendation, but it always feels good to take a break from wearing contacts and eye makeup. It’s a treat to not have to scrub off eyeliner and mascara at the end of the day… 🙂
18. Daydream or visualize.
Focusing on the present moment is important, but sometimes it’s nice to consciously decide to let your mind wander. In fact, research shows that people who learn to embrace their daydreams can gain important insights and boost their creativity. Best Health Magazine writes, “Almost all of our ambitions in life start with daydreams.”
19. Laugh.
Watch funny YouTube videos, shows like Saturday Night Live, or go to a comedy/improv show. Laughing releases pain killing endorphins.
20. Buy yourself flowers.
You deserve it.
Want to win a free cookbook?
Take a picture of yourself doing 3 of the activities listed above and tag me on social media. I am on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Deadline to enter is February 14th.
Have a happy and healthy Valentine’s Day!
