Valentine’s Day usually ends up being kind of a downer if you happen to be single. The day devoted to romance (albeit a mass-marketed saccharine version of romance) is not exactly subtle, so if you’re not happily paired up, it’s easy to let negativity invade your thoughts.

Don’t let the sympathetic stares of paired-up friends or your own toxic thoughts get you down this Feb. 14. Celebrate self-love instead. Not sure how? Whether you’re looking to treat yourself or you just want some time to relax, we can help you make this Valentine’s Day about more than rose petals and overpriced prix-fixe meals.

Single and loving it
So you’re not in a relationship. Not only could you not care less but you’re also having a blast being single. You probably don’t need our help celebrating, but we’re thinking that small touches to brighten your already-bright day might be in order. So pick up a journal with a “beyoutiful” cover, sip from a “boss lady” mug and flip through a fun book of anecdotal evidence to support your single state.

Or why not plan a spa day with your girlfriends? A day of pampering is certainly in order, and we’re firm believers that a great blowout or manicure can lighten up even the darkest of moods. If you’re in the GTA, check out Ritual in Toronto; it has empowering wellness quotes on the walls to make sure you keep those toxic thoughts at bay. Find a spa in your own town that will take care of you and your crew. If going out isn’t on the agenda, plan an at-home spa day with some DIY recipes and indulge with one of our winter desserts.



50 Boyfriends Worse Than Yours (Bloomsbury Press Agency) by Justin Racz, $17, indigo.ca.
Ritual, ritual.ca.
BeYOUtiful journal, $12, indigo.ca.
Boss Lady mug, $21, ebay.ca. 

Rest, relax and repair
A night in by yourself can be the best antidote to the stresses of everyday life—and an especially great way to avoid all the Valentine’s-themed happenings outside. But instead of putting on your sweats and turning on Netflix (though we definitely recommend you do this at some point that evening), why not run yourself a bath with some appropriately named salts? Or instead of scrolling through your phone while watching TV, pick up an adult colouring book to unwind. Light a candle with calming ingredients like aloe or chamomile and breathe deeply. If you’re really embracing the wellness theme, healing crystals from Winnipeg’s Little Box of Rocks can add a dose of balance and harmony to your space. We recommend the Wildflower "New Journies" box, which offers courage and wisdom in the form of Moonstone, Amethyst and Wildflower Seeds. And don’t forget to enjoy a restful night’s sleep with the help of a pretty eye mask.



Saje Goddess Bath Salts, $25, saje.com.  
Little Box of Rocks in Wildflower "New Journeys", $48, littleboxofrocks.com.
Silk eye mask, $20, indigo.ca.
The Body Shop Aloe & Soft Linen Scented Candle, $18, thebodyshop.ca.
Colour Me Calm by Lacy Mucklow, $15, indigo.ca.

“Me” time
There’s no reason why you can’t romance yourself this Valentine’s Day. Get yourself that pretty bauble you’ve been eyeing. Pay yourself a compliment (this cheeky T-shirt is especially spot-on). Indulge in some lacy lingerie that makes you feel great. Get dolled up just because you want to. Making yourself feel good through beauty and fashion is what it’s all about, regardless of your relationship status.



You’re a Babe T-shirt, $30, maryyoung.ca.
Holly pendant necklace, $99, swarovski.com.
Body by Victoria bra, $49, and boy shorts, $25, victoriassecret.com.
Nars Satin Lipstick in Banned Red, $36, narscosmetics.com.

Read more:
Valentine's Day gifts for men
14 Valentine's Day cards that are cute, not sappy
8 Valentine's Day ideas that rock