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10 Tips to Love from and for the Heart

Dear Ellen, Valentine’s Day is coming up on February 14th and this day is traditionally celebrated with expressions of love for one another through the presentation of chocolates and gourmet dinners. How can I show my love without ruining my healthy new year’s resolutions?

This year, when celebrating Valentine’s Day, why not treat your loved ones to the gift of good health and a truly happy heart? By incorporating some healthy One Simple Changes into your traditional Valentine’s Day routine, you and your loved ones can celebrate together without sacrificing your health.

1. Re-consider chocolate

Valentine’s Day chocolate does have some health benefits. However, instead of giving this traditional gift, why not consider a fresh fruit basket or a gift that has more permanence like a poem, book, photo or something handmade …

2. Pace yourself

If you do receive some beautiful chocolates from your loved one, place it in the freezer and enjoy in moderation over the next several weeks.

3. Plan Ahead

If you do plan on going out for a rich restaurant dinner, plan ahead by eating light at breakfast and lunch and consider a Juice PLUS+  Complete as a meal replacement option.

4. Share your meal

If you go out for a romantic dinner date, order to share. Splitting will keep you from overdoing it and may even leave you space for dessert!

5. Give time

Time is one of the most meaningful gifts. Block out some time for your loved one…share a meal, a tea, a ride, an adventure or volunteer together. Turn off your phone, listen, be mindful and 100% present, those times shared could be the key to keeping romance and the relationship alive.

6. Plan an active date

Plan a date that will keep you both active like:

  • A long romantic walk
  • A Day trip
  • Dancing
  • Ice-skating
  • A local museum with lots of walking
  • A spa
  • A gym class together

7. Prepare a romantic dinner at home

Valentine’s Day is one of the busiest days of the year for restaurants. Meals are often excessively rich and overeating can leave you feeling sluggish, tired and guilty. For a healthier Valentine’s Day meal, treat your loved one to a home-cooked meal made of fresh, natural ingredients with healthy cooking techniques and healthier ingredients. Some examples of ways in which you can create a healthier version of your favourite meal include:

  • Bake, broil and grill instead of frying.
  • Purchase lean cuts of meat to reduce fat.
  • Use fresh ingredients in place of prepared ones
  • Bulk up on vegetables and fruits

8. Drink In Moderation

A glass of red wine with dinner can help you and your loved one relax at the end of the day. But there can be too much of a good thing, and drinking too much wine or alcohol can leave you feeling less than relaxed the following morning.

9. Express Yourself

Emotional and mental health are as important as physical health. Learning how to express your emotions – even if by writing a card or even a text message - can improve your overall health in two ways:

  • The brain is like other muscles in the body, it needs to be exercised to stay healthy. Tapping into emotions and learning how to communicate them effectively works the brain, helping to keep it alert and healthy.
  • Expressing emotions can help maintain a healthy emotional balance, which can have a positive effect on relationships.

10. Don’t Stress!

Regardless of how you choose to spend Valentine’s Day, try not to overdo it. Your loved ones will not measure your love for them by the amount of stress you place on yourself in hopes of creating the perfect day. Moderation is key, and keeping things fun, yet simple, is your ticket to a stress-free Valentine’s Day that will leave you both healthy and happy. And don’t worry, if you are feeling a bit of the winter blues, read our upcoming 2 weeks of articles to keep your mood in check throughout the winter!