For some, Valentine’s Day has become a tradition, especially when in a relationship.  Gift-giving is one form of “love language.” However, there are other ways you can show your love for others in addition to buying them mindful gifts. To make Valentine’s Day more meaningful we believe even small intentional acts can showcase how much you care. Moreover, we also think that we should acknowledge and celebrate all forms of love this Valentine’s Day. Don’t you think? 

Here are some simple ways you can celebrate your loved ones (not only on Valentine’s Day):

Prepare a simple breakfast! 

Start the morning right and let your loved ones wake up to a hearty meal. It doesn’t have to be grand but your intention in putting in the effort to cook and prepare the table makes a huge difference. Enjoy the morning meal while taking this moment to check in with each other. 

Add an “us” time to your busy schedule. 

It’s always healthy to create special time and space to spend with your loved ones. The longer we are in a relationship, the more we need to intentionally carve out time to reconnect and just be present together. Breakaway from your gadgets. Instead, really be there and have a meaningful conversation about life. Live for the moment because, really, that’s all we have. 

Say “thank you” followed by “ I love you.” 

Make it a habit to express your gratitude and love aloud. Saying those two words can make your loved ones feel more appreciated and assured. There are people who are more auditory and if your partner is one, saying these words will mean a lot. Being deeply connected with others means understanding and accepting them no matter how different they are from you.

Revisit your bucket list. 

Do you have a bucket list shared with your significant other? Have you tucked away this list and completely forgotten about it because life became busier? Maybe it's time to revisit this it and if needed adjust it to the new goals you have with your partner. Then begin again and enjoy checking things off the list together.

Practice smiling in the morning. 

Think of it this way, you are sending heaps of love to the universe when you wake up with a smile. When you are in this state, it is impossible not to share the same ardor with your loved ones. Who wouldn’t want to be greeted by a beautiful smile in the morning? We know we do. 

As a social and thinking being, we cannot deny that we need others to keep living. Marisa Peer, a renowned therapist, author and inspirational speaker, says that we carry the experiences of our ancestors in our DNA — way back to when humans lived out in the wild. We needed our tribe to survive. As we evolved throughout history, we carried this trait and need to be surrounded by others. 

Remember that love is transcendental. What does this mean? Love goes beyond language and material things. We can’t really define the immensity of what love is but for sure, showing our love can be expressed in our interaction, intention, and actions all year round. 

Your impact on others is far bigger than you think. You might not know it but a conversation with a loved one has made their day. Your smile made them smile. The kind words you have uttered brought them inspiration. A single act of kindness has warmed their hearts and a listening ear has made them feel important. 

So go ahead and keep on spreading the love, in your own unique way.