Thinking that COVID is going to get you out of making the effort this Valentine’s Day? Not a chance. It’s just around the corner and celebrating it is going to look pretty different this year. Usually, we celebrate February 14th by booking a romantic meal, getting a weekend away or even a mini holiday.
Well that’s not happening. Sigh. So, we will just have to try and inspire some fun in other ways. Let’s take a look at some ways you can celebrate from home.
Organise a Date at Home
Bring the date to you. Cook your favourite meal, get dressed up, enjoy a few drinks, and make the effort with a romantic setting of ambient lights and candles. Smooth.
Get creative and turn your cooking experience into a ‘Come Dine with Me’ night. Cook a romantic three-course dinner and rate each other’s cooking for some added entertainment (you will have to add your own sarcastic voice-over for the evening).
Organise a Mr & Mrs Quiz
We all love a quiz, but who doesn’t love and Mr & Mrs quiz? Probably quite a few people to be fair. But anyway, it’s definitely worth a go. If you’ve never played this game, ‘Mr or Mrs’ is based on a list of questions you ask your partner about yourself to see how well they know you. Could get awkward – do your homework.
Movie Night
Classic. Stock up on your favourite snacks, choose the films and put your feet up for the perfect evening. Let’s face it, there isn’t much else to do, so no need to argue over what you watch. There’s plenty of time for Die Hard AND The Notebook. What about even re-creating the cinema and look at purchasing a mini projector?! A 6ft projection of Bruce Willis on your walls – what more do you want.
Don’t Live with Your Other Half?
If you can’t see your partner, you could still do a movie night but get all “2020” and do it over Zoom. You could even order each other’s takeaway for the evening. Go rogue and order them a Vindaloo for a laugh. Board games are good too. Monopoly over Zoom is a great shout. Would the inevitable “flipping over of the board” when you’re up to your eyeballs in debt be as dramatic by yourself? Find out!
Don’t Have a Other Half?
So what, its everyone else’s loss, eh? And let’s be honest, you’re in the strongest position by being able to choose exactly what YOU want to do. Turn off the social media. Order a takeaway. Get a film on. Sounds bliss.
Also, research shows that the act of giving can actually boost your mental wellbeing. So why not send your mate a card? Or some flowers. Or just drop them a text to tell them you love them.
Whatever you do this Valentines, be happy, be kind and enjoy yourselves.
On a serious note, if you’re really struggling on Valentine’s Day (or any other day), there is support out there. Don’t ever be afraid to ask for help.
- Shout: Text ‘SHOUT’ to 85258 if you are struggling and they will text you back.
- Anxiety UK: a charity which specifies in helping those suffering from anxiety.
- The Samaritans: a charity providing support to anyone in emotional distress.
- Mind: making sure no one has to face a mental health problem alone.
- Papyrus: contact for help and advice around thoughts of suicide.