February has rolled around again, bringing its usual lineup of heart-shaped chocolates, flower deliveries, and over-the-top declarations of love. And while that’s all fine and good, not everyone’s looking for the Hollywood version of Valentine’s Day.

This year, let me pitch an idea: why not make yourself a valentine?

Think of it like this — you wouldn’t let your car run on fumes, so why let yourself?

Now, before you roll your eyes at the term “self-care,” let me clarify. This isn’t about turning your life into a wellness retreat or buying into anything that involves crystals or $20 smoothies. Real self-care is more practical — and often more hilarious. It’s about the small, meaningful things you do to keep yourself grounded when life is chaotic. And trust me, February is the prime chaos season.

Take it from me: I once found myself in mid-February staring out my back door, holding a cup of coffee and watching a bird feeder like it was a Netflix drama. It wasn’t a grand plan to “reconnect with nature”; it was just a moment to pause. And you know what? It worked. Those five minutes reminded me that self-care doesn’t have to be Instagram-worthy. Sometimes, it’s just about giving yourself permission to stop.

So, how do you show yourself some love this Valentine’s Day? Start with the basics: fresh air. I know it’s February and stepping outside feels like entering a walk-in freezer, but it’s worth it. Even a short walk or standing on your porch with a hot drink can do wonders for your brain. For those of us who wrestle with Seasonal Affective Disorder (or just miss the sun), daylight — what little there is — helps. And if the sky refuses to cooperate, a light therapy lamp can work magic. Pair it with a strong coffee and a daydream about being somewhere tropical, and you’ve got yourself a decent substitute.

Next, move your body, but make it fun. This doesn’t have to involve a gym, a personal trainer, or Lycra. One of the best workouts I’ve ever had was chasing my dog through the yard after she stole a sock. Another time, I danced around the kitchen while waiting for my toast. Was it graceful? Absolutely not. But it was effective.

Move in a way that makes you smile — whether that’s a walk, stretching, or attempting yoga while the cat judges you from across the room.

Then there’s food. Self-care doesn’t mean reinventing your entire diet, but it does mean feeding yourself properly. Cook something simple and satisfying — a grilled sandwich, a hearty stew, or even a steak with a baked potato. Bonus points if you toss in something green. And yes, dessert is always on the table because nothing says “I care about me” like chocolate.

The point is this: self-care isn’t about grand gestures or flawless routines. It’s about showing up for yourself, even in small ways.

So, this Valentine’s Day, don’t stress about who’s bringing you roses. Take care of yourself. Because when you do, life feels just a little easier — and a whole lot sweeter.

Amy Tucker is a University Instructor at Thompson Rivers University and proudly calls herself an “accidental athlete.” As a senior swimmer and long-distance open-water enthusiast, she has represented Team Canada on the Age-Group Triathlon Team for the past three years. Amy is passionate about encouraging others to embrace fitness and wellness at any stage of life, proving it’s never too late to chase new challenges.