Whether you’re in a romantic relationship or not, Valentine’s Day can come with a lot of emotions and stress. Because this past year has been a rollercoaster for all of us, we think that this year, it should be all about YOU. In the infamous words of RuPaul Charles, “If you don’t love yourself, how in the hell are you going to love anyone else?” Here are some of our favorite ways to relax and practice self care with or without a partner.
In times of high stress, it’s important to stay grounded. Many people turn to meditation to help them do this. If, like me, meditation has always seemed a bit intimidating to you, or if you find it downright impossible to shut your brain off, there are still meditation options for you. Mobile apps like Calm or Headspace offer various forms of guided meditation to follow along with and keep you focused. I personally have the attention span of a goldfish, and I’ve found that I get a lot of the same benefits of meditation from adult coloring books and soft music. Meditation is different for everyone!
2. Take a bath.Listen. I am a big fan of extravagant, luxurious baths. I think it’s something not enough people indulge in, and I just can’t understand why. Get into it! Grab some yummy bubble bath, some salts, candles, and a book, TV show, or some music, and you’re good to go. You can even add a CBD bath bomb for that little extra bit of relief. (Usually sold at your local health food store or CBD shop.) If you feel kind of bougie setting this all up, you’ve done it right. Now, grab a glass of wine or your favorite vape cart and hop in that tub!
Many people hold tension all throughout their bodies without even realizing it. I know that when I got my first professional massage, I was so surprised afterward at the feeling of walking around with no pain or tightness in my back. And to think, people feel like that all the time?! Wild. If you’ve been looking for a sign, I’m here to tell you that you deserve a massage. Or, as a cheaper option with a romantic twist, take turns with your partner giving each other massages. Add a bit of a THC or CBD topical to that sexy, intimate mix and you’ve got yourself quite a lovely night.
4. Lean on Bob Ross.I don’t know about you, but nothing relaxes me like happy little trees. Whether you’re an artist or not, it’s oddly satisfying to watch. You can’t deny that. For a fun date activity or afternoon with friends, turn it into a paint night! Bust out your canvases and paintbrushes and follow along with Bob to see which of you is hiding a secret talent. Paint nights are often held in bars and drinks are served as an added twist, but if drinking isn’t your thing, any little treat will do. I suggest peanut M&Ms, because everything is better with peanut M&Ms.
You know that show that everyone gives you a hard time for loving or asks how you can stand it? Watch that one. Watch as many episodes as you want. Watch the whole series, then start it over and watch it again in the name of self care.
With many of us self-isolating and working from home, it’s easy to forget about the outside world. I know I sure do some days. But really, we’re just like plants. We need water and sunlight to survive, so get outside! We are lucky to live in Utah and are surrounded by postcard scenery at every turn — the outdoor possibilities are endless. Go for a hike, a run, or a walk. Have a picnic, read a book on the lawn, or tend your garden. Just get outside a bit and soak up a little sun.
This one might seem silly, but bear with me here. Sometimes you’ve got to dance. Lock yourself in a room, turn on your jam, and let loose. Have a friend, loved one, or pet join you if you’re feeling extra free-spirited! It doesn’t have to be long, but I promise, after about 60 seconds of dancing with all you’ve got, you’ll feel noticeably better. I’m no scientist, but that’s just science: dancing makes you happy.
I’m not going to sit here and tell you that cleaning your space will be fun. I have many other things I’d rather do than clean most days. However, from personal experience, I can tell you that every time someone told you that a cluttered desk makes for a cluttered mind, they were right. The same goes for your bedroom, home, car, etc. It’s been said that by taking pride in your space and straightening the area around you, you’re more likely to feel productive, focused, and inspired. Don’t believe me? Bust out the bleach and sponges and get to scrubbin’. You can thank me later.
Sometimes all you need is warm food made with love. Cooking with your loved ones can be a great bonding activity, but that’s not to say that you can’t take this suggestion on your own. For ultimate relaxation and medicinal benefit, try making a cannabis-infused meal. Here’s a Valentine’s Day-themed menu that looks extra dank. Pro-tip: If you’d rather not deal with 
the smell associated with many cannabutter-based recipes, here are some fun, Valentine’s Day-themed cocktails (that can also be turned into mocktails) for you to try out. Add a few drops of your tincture for that same medicinal effect.
Though a lot of these recommendations had some cannabis-related twists, it’s important to remember that cannabis is only legal in Utah to patients with their Medical Cards. To unlock all those amazing canna-benefits above, I invite you to book a new patient appointment for you and someone you love at Utah Therapeutic Health Center for $80 off with the mushy-gushy lovey-dovey promo code LOVE420. Yes, you read that correctly: that’s $40 off for BOTH OF YOU (UTTHC’s biggest discount ever!). You deserve to feel better and so do your loved ones. Is there really any greater gift than that? (Edit: this promotion has now expired.)
However you choose to do it, love yourself this Valentine’s Day — and every day while you’re at it. For more information about how Medical Cannabis treatment can help you feel better, check out a few articles on our blog and read through our FAQ section. Don’t be a stranger — reach out to us at any time at the number in the top right corner of this page. Call or text — we’d love to hear from you. Wishing you a happy, safe, relaxing Valentine’s Day from all of us here at UtahMarijuana.org.
