Say nice things to yourself

Happy Valentine's Day (eve)!

A happy day for some, a sad day for others -
a meaningless "made-up" day for even more.

From a mental health perspective, Valentines' Day can be a mental drag. Statistics show more people feel lonely on Valentines Day than those who feel connected; more relationships break up than in other months and more people file for divorce around this time of year.

Have I popped your Valentine's Day balloon? (sorry)

I can't help but think of those who are suffering this week and I'm holding them in my heart today and throughout this week. I even wrote a blog about supporting our grieving friends.

I send those who are struggling my default mantra (borrowed from the Navy Seals) :

The only easy day was yesterday.

For my sad friends, tune out of social media for the next 48 hours, get yourself a small treat and say nice things to yourself!

For those who are ready to go all out for Valentines' Day - live it up! Enjoy your chocolate covered strawberries and embrace the glow of candle lit dinners and also...say nice things to yourself.

You might feel a little bit of both - a little sad and a little happy. And that is okay too. Holidays typically remind us of what we have - and also a bit about what is missing. Whatever you are feeling today, lean into those feelings for a bit and then take a break from them.

Here's a few corny jokes to help you take a break:

What did one cat say to the other on Valentine's Day?
Don't ever change, I think you're purrfect!

What do you say to an octopus on Valentine's Day?
I want to hold your hand, hand, hand, hand, hand, hand, hand, hand.

What do you say to a slug on Valentine's Day?
Will you be my Valen-slime?

It may be a made-up holiday and mostly filled with ridiculous-ness and some grief triggers, but I hope there's a least a little something sweet for you to celebrate this week.

Do you find that those Valentine's boxes of candy have some really delicious and amazing candies in there?

But...there's always a least a few that you don't like the taste of

It's a great way to remember that Valentine's Day can be a little bit of both.

Some really wonderfully sweet moments - and a few that aren't so special at all.

In your journal, take note of the BOTH.

In your week/month/life, what parts are feeling extra sweet and what parts are a little harder to swallow.

Just notice them both and then say something nice to yourself in writing! It makes a difference to see it written down!

- I think you're purrfect just the way you are!