Making the Most of Valentine’s Day During the Pandemic
With the first Valentine’s Day of the pandemic quickly approaching, it may be difficult to plan or think of celebrating it. We might be missing the ambiance of filled restaurants, a packed movie theatre, or travel to our favourite destinations. While date nights of the past are not available this year, it does not mean the holiday should be cancelled.
Right now, we are all in need of love. For couples and singles alike, it’s important to remember that this day is not about where we are, what we are eating, drinking, or doing – it’s about celebrating love and togetherness. Whether it be commemorating loving relationships with a partner or acknowledging the love you have for yourself and your family, this is a perfect year to step away from the commercialization of the holiday and focus on togetherness.
Date nights can still be vibrant and romantic from the comfort of your home. For example, making a restaurant-style environment at home, planning a movie marathon or re-creating first dates can keep the magic alive. On the contrary, if you aren’t in a romantic relationship, singles might benefit from practicing self-love and self-care. It can be emotionally challenging, but it is a day where we all need love, even if we don’t have a partner. Take the time to learn new things, understand wants and needs, and plan a day where love is the priority – for our partners, families, and ourselves.
If you are celebrating Valentine’s Day and unsure how to celebrate from home, here are a few ideas.
1. Order take-out from your favourite restaurant or a place you haven’t tried before. If you and your partner like trying new things, this is a perfect opportunity to try a new restaurant and dress up as if you were going out.
2. Learn something new together. For example, buy a paint kit and challenge each other to paint certain images or each other.
3. Cook a meal together. Even if you aren’t the most talented chef, bonding over a nice dinner that was made together can also be a fun activity.
4. Plan a game night. If you both love some competition, planning a game night might be a fun way to spend the evening.
5. Have a spa day. This could be an excellent idea for couples and singles. Draw a bath or buy some face masks. With a nice snack and some pleasant aromas, it will make you forget about the craziness going on in the world – even if it’s for one night.
At The Therapy Centre, we have skilled Psychologists, Social Workers and Psychotherapists who effectively treat a variety of mental health issues that may be difficult to process on your own, from everyday challenges to traumatic events, including anxiety, depression, grief/loss, relationships issues, stress management and many more. We offer individual, couples and family therapy.
At The Therapy Centre we are currently offering in-person therapy as well as telehealth services, including secure phone sessions and videoconferencing.
Our offices are located at 2525 Old Bronte Road in Oakville and 849 Upper Wentworth Street in Hamilton-just minutes from the QEW and easily accessible from Peel Region, Halton Region, Halton Hills, Stoney Creek and Niagara Region.
References
Goldsmith, B. (2021, February 9). How to Make a Pandemic Valentine’s Celebration Loving and Safe. Psychology Today. https://www.psychologytoday.com/ca/blog/emotional-fitness/202102/how-make-pandemic-valentine-s-celebration-loving-and-safe (opens in a new window)
LaBianca, J. (2021, February 1). The 17 Sweetest Ways to Celebrate Valentine’s Day at Home This Year. Good Housekeeping. https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/holidays/valentines-day-ideas/g35140980/quarantine-valentines-day-ideas/ (opens in a new window)
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