5 Ways to Show Love Beyond Valentine’s Day
Valentine’s Day is a holiday that reminds us to express our appreciation and love for others, but it doesn’t have to be the only day we honor love. In fact, love can be celebrated every day in some way, and it’s likely to have a much larger impact.
When my mother-in-law was recovering from a severe car accident, my husband and I were constantly trying to find ways to lift her spirits, brighten her day and just show her how much we loved and cared for her. One way we did this was by giving her a little card everyday that had some type of uplifting message in it. Some days it was an inspirational quote or words of encouragement, while other days it was a suggested fun activity. My mother-in-law still reminds of how this tiny sentiment of love brought her joy during an incredibly challenging time in her life. This was wonderful to hear as it also brought great happiness to our lives.
Not everyone expresses love in the same way. In fact, there is a New York Times Bestseller called The Five Love Languages: The Secret to Love that Lasts by Gary Chapman that highlights five different ways people feel comfortable giving and receiving love.
Using “The Five Love Language” model, here are five different ways you can let your loved ones know how much you care for them:
Words of Affirmation:
By just saying the words, “I love you” or “I’m thinking of you,” you can make a significant impact on your loved ones’ lives. Even positive words of encouragement, such as “you’re making great progress” can be the very words needed to help push through a difficult time.
Quality Time:
Yes, time can equal love. By simply spending time with your loved ones, you’re letting them know they are important to you. Enjoying a meal together, taking a walk together or simply having an in-person or phone conversation can be the loving gift of quality time.
Receiving Gifts:
A token of your affection can be a wonderful way to share your love, whether it’s buying your loved ones their favorite flowers, books or even food. It doesn’t have to be expensive, just thoughtful and even better, personal.
Acts of Service:
Sometimes actions can speak louder than words. A simple act of kindness, such as cooking a meal for your loved ones, can be a perfect heartfelt gift of love. An act of service can reduce stress and increase happiness for your loved ones.
Physical Touch:
A hug alone can transfer incredible amounts of emotion and love from one person to another. Just like babies, adults greatly benefit from a simple touch; it creates a powerful human connection.
Identify the perfect gift of love for your loved ones and don’t forget to share it on the other 364 days of the year. Spread the love!
Natalie Drugan
Natalie Drugan is a nutrition and lifestyle health coach. Natalie is dedicated to helping others make healthy choices centered on clean food, toxic-free environments and happy living. Natalie received her nutrition health coaching certification from the Institute for Integrative Nutrition in NYC, the world’s largest nutrition school. As a Certified Nutrition Health Coach, she studied over 100 dietary theories and learned from world-renowned experts and doctors including Andrew Weil, MD, Walter Willet, MD, Mark Hyman, MD and Deepak Chopra, MD. Natalie is board certified by the American Association of Drugless Practitioners (AADP). Additionally, Natalie received her BBA in Marketing from Texas A&M University.