You Don't Need Valentine's Day to Appreciate Your Lover

We all know that Valentine’s day is a big marketing scheme that, year and year again, succeeds at getting Americans to spend billions of dollars on cards, candy, flowers, and other unnecessary things to show affection to their loved ones. While we’re all about appreciating our lovers, we think there are better ways to go about it.

Woman looking affectionately at man in a car

Here are our favorite ways to spend quality time with your lover this week without spending tons of cash on underwhelming gifts:

Spend time in nature.

Outdoor adventures are the ultimate romantic getaways. Take some time this week to go on a hike or a bike ride to your favorite coffee shop together. Moving outside fosters a deep connection that is often lost in our busy lifestyles today.

Give presence over presents.

Oftentimes the best gift is simply one of presence and deep listening. Try to have a night free of electronics. Turn off phones (and maybe even the TV!), and simply enjoy each other’s company.

Try something new!

It's easy to get stuck in patterns of doing the same things in close relationships. Experiencing new things together can foster closeness and can make for some great shared memories! Instead of going to the movies or the same cafe, try taking a painting class or volunteering together.

Cook together.

Skip the packed restaurants this week, and cook a wholesome meal together instead. If possible, plan, shop for, and prepare the meal together. Make it fun and romantic! You can cook to music and light some candles at the table to set an extra-special mood.

Two stacks of heart-shaped pancakes topped with syrup and EPIC bacon bits

Now confirmed by Harvard research, relationships are the foundation for long, happy, and healthy lives. Many of us spend countless hours working out and fine-tuning our diet without giving much thought or care to the quality of our relationships with others. Use Valentine’s Day as an excuse to do just that—no commercial candy or flowers needed. Instead, spend quality time with your lover (or friends), and remember all of the reasons you’re grateful for the relationship you share.