10 Tips for a Heart-Healthy Valentine’s Day

This Valentine’s Day, show your loved ones you care from the bottom of your healthy heart. From fun outdoor activities and romantic heart-healthy meals to moments of self-care, there are plenty of ways to indulge in the day, be good to your body (and recover from the day-before Super Bowl splurges). 

1. Go out and play. Go ice skating, build a snowman, head to the bowling alley, or throw a frisbee at the park. You’ll strengthen your bond with others as you create fun memories you can look back on — and keep your body moving while you’re at it!
2. Create something together. Plan a painting date night, take a cooking class, or play music together. Besides boosting brain health, creating something with someone can really enhance your connection. 
3. Set your kids up for success. If your kids have a Valentine’s Day party, ditch the store-bought candy, and send them off with boxes of raisins, pretzels, or homemade healthy treats like Chocolate Almond Butter Oat Snack Bars.
4. Prepare a romantic candlelight dinner. Try a new heart-healthy dish that’ll wow your partner. This Salmon with Pepita-Lime Butter recipe is packed with omega-3 fatty acids which can help lower blood pressure, reduce inflammation, and prevent disease.
5. Make a delicious dessert. Splurging on dessert doesn’t mean you have to blow your diet. Drizzle fresh strawberries with dark chocolate or try Dried Fruit Compote with Green Tea & Lemon.
6. Order wisely when dining out. If you choose to dine out, read food descriptions carefully, get sauces on the side, pay attention to portion size, and eat at a slow pace. You can still make healthy choices when you don’t cook at home.
7. Book a massage. Rejuvenate your mind and body with a massage (or couples massage)! You’ll experience both physical and mental benefits, including improved circulation, reduced muscle pain and stress, and increased relaxation.
8. Write a handwritten letter. Take the time to think about all the things you love about your partner and put it down on paper. Don’t worry if you’re not a literary genius — taking the time to make this romantic gesture will mean a lot.
9. Grab your bestie. You don’t have to have a significant other to make the day extra special. Share the day with anyone that’s important to you — even if it’s carving out a little alone time for yourself.
10. Don’t forget Fido! Celebrate the day with your favorite furry friend with a hike in a new part of town or a romp in the snow. You’ll get in a good workout too!  

Most importantly, show your body and mind self-love this Valentine’s Day. By surrounding yourself with the people you care about and nurturing your own body and mind, you’ll spend the day doing what’s most important – loving yourself!