Valentine’s Day: Chocolates, flowers, dinner, and dancing bring about memories of Valentine’s Days from the past.
But this year, the day of love may look different.
“Couples and singles are generally feeling overwhelmed, so V-day seems to be the farthest thing from their minds in many cases
The stress of online fatigue, work, unemployment, managing homeschoolers, fear of getting sick, and more can do more than keep romance at a great distance.
Prolonged stress can also take a toll on your mental and physical health.
As per medical specialists; “If prolonged, chronic stress can impair communication between the immune system and the hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal access, which can adversely affect mood, mental health, energy levels (as well as metabolism),”
“This wear on our bodies affects our moods and relationships.
This doesn’t mean that relationships are suffering, but we may not be as focused on love, the themes we tend to associate with V-day.”
In addition, restrictions on indoor dining and other forms of entertainment can make the day more challenging.
“Holidays and traditions provide joy and instill a sense of positive anticipation. This anticipation fosters excitement and eagerness. It really helps our mood and attitude during times when we have to navigate the challenge and difficulties of the here and now,”
Experts suggest considering the five following ideas and alternatives to celebrate Valentine’s Day safely during the COVID-19 pandemic.
1. Celebrate with others
Rather than focusing on just love for one, celebrating other types of love, such as that with your parents, an older neighbor, a single friend, or another couple.
“Depending on local restrictions (and weather), you may be able to meet outside or plan something virtual,”
2. Drop the pressure
If planning something for Valentine’s Day actual day adds more stress to your life so unfix your attention on February 14.
“You don’t have to celebrate love only for today. Instead, think about ways to invest in the relationship on a daily basis. What can you do to surprise your loved ones tomorrow and the next day?”
Focusing on smaller gestures such as rubbing their shoulders if they’re on a stressful call or bringing them coffee or tea before they get up in the morning.
“Daily investment is more important than a single celebration in February,”
If you’d rather celebrate on a day before or after Valentine’s Day, that can help relieve pressure, too.
“[You] can surprise your partner or family Order in and treat yourselves or try a new recipe together. If you’re not into food, Sign up and take a class together do painting, sketching, yoga, or anything else that strikes your fancy,”
3. Change up your routine
Focus on breaking from your routine with your loved ones when celebrating Valentine’s Day,
“It does not have to be drastic for it to be special,”
For example, if you typically have dinner and go to a movie with your partner, switch it up by:
• Writing a sentimental note
• Ordering flowers or chocolates
• Playing a game
• Decorating your space with balloons or streamers
“The most important part of Valentine’s Day and other holidays is to give your undivided attention to the moment — i.e.more communication, express appreciation, extend gratitude, and show love,” to your loved ones.
4. Rearrange your surroundings
Over the past year, it’s likely that your space has acted as an office, school, bedroom, and more.
Also,“Can you rearrange the furniture or order something new — a colored light bulb or new sheets — just to change things up?”
5. Walk and talk
In fact, When all else is shut down, going to a nearby park for walk;with loved ones, is an active way to “have a meaningful conversation without the pressure ” of your daily routine.
The writer is Freelancer, associated with Medical Profession ,working towards PhD in Healthcare Management.