For single people, Valentine's Day can be a painful reminder of the relationship they long for or the loneliness they feel in their lives. Here's how to manage the occasion:
1. Accept your emotions.
If you're feeling lonely because you're not in a romantic relationship, or sad over the recent ending of a relationship, give yourself permission to feel what you feel. Talk to a trusted friend or write in your journal about the feelings this day brings up. Remind yourself that it's only one day and that this day, too, shall pass.
2. Be social.
Organize a group of your single friends for dinner out or a potluck on Valentine's Day. Just because you're not in a romantic relationship doesn't mean that you don't have people who love you and whom you love in your life. Take this day to honour and celebrate these relationships.
3. Treat yourself to Valentine's fun.
Buy some flowers for your kitchen or a box of your favourite chocolates, schedule a massage or make an appointment at the spa. You're perfectly capable of treating yourself. You don't need a partner to do it.
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Carole-Anne Vatcher, MSW, RSW is a Toronto-based individual and couple therapist in private practice. She has been interviewed for Homemakers, Reader's Digest and Canadian Living. She has made guest appearances on Canada AM, The Erin Davis Show, W Live and CityTV's TalkTV. Carole-Anne helps men and women improve their relationships and make positive changes in their lives. You can visit her website at http://www.torontotherapy.ca/.
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