Move Over, V-Day: 10 Ways to Celebrate Single Awareness Day
Here's what you can do on V-Day if you're flying solo.
(SPOT.ph) After February 13 is the 15th of the month—this is most likely your current running joke unless you’re celebrating February with an S.O. The good news is you don’t have to feel incomplete just because you don’t have a date. In fact, you can have double the fun with half of the total expenses if you go for at least one of the tips below.
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Here are 10 things to do on Valentine’s Day if you're single:
Treat yourself
Do something special for yourself, such as having a spa day or spending on a fancy meal. Chi, The Spa at EDSA Shangri-La, Manila is one of SPOT.ph's Top 10 Hotel Spas in Metro Manila. Guests get their own room, which has a spacious shower-slash-steam room, as well as a cup of ginger tea before treatment.
You can also indulge and order a plate of great steak for one at Wolfgang, which has branches at The Podium, Newport World Resorts, and Bonifacio Global City.
Spend quality time with friends
Valentine’s Day is a good excuse to spend quality time with friends, catch up, and have good conversations. Have a night out with the girls and savor a dinner that you’ve wanted to try.
You can also use this chance to meet new people via a group outing. Look for group activities you can join in your area, and make sure you’re physically and mentally prepared—you never know who you’ll meet.
A movie night is also great when you can’t be bothered by heavy planning and confusing logistics. Choose the most chill place to hang out and enjoy the company of the people around you. The VIP Cinema at Power Plant Mall is a great place to lounge around with some popcorn and drinks if you’re looking forward to flying solo at the cinema.
Volunteer at a local organization
Volunteering is a good way to live out a day of selflessness and focus on helping others, even if only for a short time. Maybe drop by your nearest food bank and sort out donations. Or visit a home for the elderly and get the chance to listen to the stories the folks have to share. If you’re fond of animals, visit a shelter of your choice and sign up as a volunteer, specifically as a dog walker, if that’s something within your capacity.
Try a new hobby
As the usual saying goes, there’s no limit to what you can do. Why not spice up your Valentine’s Day by exploring other things that you haven’t tried out yet?
Painting or rock climbing are just two opposite activities that you may be interested in exploring. Speaking of rock climbing, Climb Central Manila and The Bouldering Hive are just two great wall-climbing spots in Metro Manila. If you want to go all out and unleash your inner ninja, Pretty Huge Obstacles and Ninja Academy might be where your jam is.
Face your fears and travel solo
Cross off an item on your bucket list and travel solo. If you’re looking for an exciting adventure that won’t burn a hole in your wallet, the famous mountain province of Sagada is a great choice if you’re up for an engaging experience. Don’t forget to bring a lot of patience and enthusiasm, as the hike includes a combination of easy and hard paths.
If you wish to explore further, nothing beats the feeling of spending some time by the sea. Palawan has some of the most beautiful beaches in the country. Take the chance to reflect, think, and most importantly, learn to appreciate yourself more than ever.
Also read: 20 Flower Shops You Can Get Fresh Blooms From This Valentine's
Do some self-reflection
Reflect on your personal growth and set goals for the future. To guide you in this process, read an inspiring book you’ve put aside for the longest time.
You can also try some mindfulness exercises. Eat chocolate or a simple snack, play some good music, and try to observe what and how you feel. Take deep breaths, ground your feet slowly and firmly, and feel the air around you.
Invest in self-care
Self-care activities, such as reading a book or taking a relaxing bath, will give you some peace that’s conducive to creative and productive thoughts.
Since the 14th is a day full of roses and love songs, consider listening to some good music or even singing karaoke in the comfort of your home. Or you can also cozy up in your blanket with a good movie, hot tea, and favorite snacks. Invite your pets to come close to you for that very much-welcome snuggle or sleep in for the whole day. Going for a home spa can help you get that well-rested glow and even improve your overall mood for the rest of the week without breaking the bank.
Get started on a self-love ritual
Writing in a gratitude journal or meditating are two of the best activities you can do if you have an emotional pattern that you feel needs improvement. These will help you stay grounded and equipped for the journey the rest of the year may bring.
Aside from these, making a list of your favorite things can be a good reminder of what truly matters. Prepare your favorite food, wear your favorite clothes, and write affirmations or phrases of love to remind you of your worth and uniqueness.
The process shouldn’t stop here. Why not make it a long-term commitment in an effort to know more about yourself?
Extend a helping hand
Reach out to someone who may need a friend, such as an elderly neighbor or a co-worker. Being generous with your presence will give almost a similar experience to how it feels to receive love. If you feel comfortable enough, you can invite your single friends to a group activity, like a round of two of your favorite board games at All aBOARD XP.
Celebrate being single
Embrace your individuality and celebrate being single by doing something you enjoy. It could be as simple as walking alone, listening to your favorite music, or talking to your friends. You don’t have to feel left out, especially if you’ve got friends who also embrace the single life. You can even make it a duty-free zone and share stories, experiences, and much-needed encouragement.