Introducing the Mayor’s Youth Council Health and Well-Being Column! Each month, we’ll share fun, relevant, easy-to-follow mental health tips through the Youth Central newsletter, giving you the tools and support to prioritize your well-being with new topics and advice every month!
Brief History of Valentine’s Day
Valentine’s Day is a longtime widely celebrated holiday that is characterized by love, chocolate, and heart-shaped everything, but the history of Valentine’s Day is much less known and it goes deeper than just romance. The holiday originates all the way back to ancient Rome where Saint Valentine defied the orders of Emperor Claudius II’s orders where he outlawed marriage for his soldiers because he believed single men made better warriors by secretly marrying them. The defiance of Saint Valentine led to his imprisonment and eventual execution on February 14th around 269 AD. Before his death, legends say that he sent a note signed “from your Valentine,” creating an iconic tradition that we see to this day.
By the time the Middle Ages rolled around, poets like Geoffrey Chaucer had mentioned the day in his writings and soon, Valentine’s Day became associated with courtly love. By the 18th century, exchanging handwritten notes and tokens of affection became a common tradition and today, those have evolved into things like greeting cards, flowers and chocolate.
Taking Care of Yourself on Valentine’s Day (Emotionally and Physically!)
Valentine’s Day goes beyond romance and serves as a great reminder to focus on relationships that are important to us and self-care. Love and affection – regardless of who or what it is in reference to – play a very important role in your emotional and physical well-being. Studies have shown the amazing results that love and social connections have on helping to reduce stress, lower blood pressure, and even boost immunity. It’s important to look for these connections and take time for yourself too when you need it!
Valentine’s Day can stir up a lot of feelings—whether you’re single, in a relationship, or navigating something complicated. Here are some mental health tips to help you thrive and protect your emotional well-being on Valentine’s Day:
If You’re Single
Embrace Self-Love: Treat yourself to something that makes you happy—a nice meal, a cozy movie night, or a new book. Write yourself a letter of appreciation. Reflect on your growth and strengths.
Reframe Your Perspective: Remember, Valentine’s Day isn’t just about romantic love. Celebrate friendships, family, or pets! Think of it as a day to spread kindness.
Limit Social Media: Social media can amplify feelings of comparison or loneliness. Consider taking a break for the day.
Plan a “Me Day”: Take yourself on a solo date—go to a museum, your favorite coffee shop, or a hike.
If You’re in a Relationship
Manage Expectations: Communicate with your partner about plans to avoid disappointment. Focus on connection rather than purchasing items!
Keep It Simple: Intimate moments and meaningful conversations, no need to go overboard with gestures.
Be Present: Put away distractions (like your phone) and truly enjoy the time together.
Practice Gratitude: Take time to express what you appreciate about your partner.
If It’s a Hard Day (Breakup, Grief, etc.)
Give Yourself Permission to Feel: Don’t push away difficult emotions. It’s okay to feel sad, nostalgic, or lonely.
Lean on Your Support System: Talk to a friend, therapist, or family member who understands what you’re going through.
Focus on Self-Compassion: Treat yourself like you would a close friend. Be kind and gentle with yourself.
Create a New Tradition: Redirect your focus with something that brings you joy—a workout, cooking a new recipe, or starting a new hobby.
General Tips, no matter your relationship status
Random Acts of Kindness: Doing something kind for others can boost your mood—send a thoughtful message, buy coffee for a stranger, or donate to a cause.
Seek Professional Support: If the day brings overwhelming emotions, it’s okay to reach out to a counselor or therapist.
With all that said, here are some fun facts about Valentine’s Day that might surprise you!
- The first Valentine was sent from prison – Saint Valentine is believed to have written the very first Valentine’s note to the jailer’s daughter before his execution.
- “XOXO” comes from medieval times – The “X” that symbolizes a kiss dates to the Middle Ages when people would sign their documents with an “X” and then kiss it as a sign of sincerity.
- About 27% of pet owners buy Valentine’s Day gifts for their pets
- There was actually two Saint Valentines who were both martyred and nobody knows for sure who the famous holiday originated from
- The oldest known Valentine’s message to date is from 1415 where a French duke named Charles sent a poem to his wife while he was a prisoner in the Tower of London, one of the lines from the poem? “I am already sick of love, My very gentle Valentine.” Ooolala!
- February 14th is also known as Singles Awareness Day – for those not celebrating romance, this day can also be a celebration of friendships or other important connections in our lives.
Regardless of who or how you’re celebrating Valentine’s Day, whether it be with a loved one, friends, or simply practicing self-care, Valentine’s Day is a great day to appreciate love and all of its forms. And the next time you see a heart-shaped box of chocolates, remember – it all started with a rebellious priest in ancient Rome, and today, it’s also a celebration of health, happiness, and connection!