Will You Be My Valentine?

It’s time to say I LOVE YOU the healthy way this Valentine’s Day! Around Valentine’s Day, you may feel a lot of pressure to spoil the significant people in your life with gifts, chocolates and an elaborate meal. Why not treat you and your sweetheart to a gift that’s not focused on food?

Here are 6 ideas for a non-food gift for Valentine’s Day:

1. Handmade Cards: Get scissors, paper and markers and create your own Valentine’s Day card. Fill the card with a special note or poem and let your creativity shine!

2. Together Time: Spend some quality time together and plan a fun activity for the two of you. Look into a weekend getaway or plan a day trip to go skiing or tubing.

3. Be a Team: Exercise together! Get outside and take a walk, run or bike ride together. Being active together allows you to spend time with each other while getting in a great, healthy workout.

4. Relax Together: Give the gift of wellness. Find a spa in your area and purchase couples massage for you and your loved one to experience together.

5. Help Others: Volunteer this Valentine’s Day with your sweetheart and give back. Go to a soup kitchen, food pantry or make a donation of old clothes you no longer wear. Giving back can be a feel good activity for the two of you.

6. Love yourself: Attend a yoga class, a trip to the spa, or a day of rest at home as a great way to de-stress. Use this time to reflect on what is most important in your life, especially loving yourself.

Chocolate Lovers

For all of you chocolate lovers, this month is also National Chocolate Month and I know the temptation that comes around when chocolate is involved. But, have no fear! I am here to give you some healthy ways to incorporate chocolate into your life.

Dark chocolate, with at least 70% cacao listed as the first ingredient is considered the healthiest option and you can combine it with some of your favorite foods:

• Add a piece or two to your granola or yogurt.

• Grate some into your oatmeal for breakfast.

• Blend the chocolate into a smoothie for a nutritious snack or meal.

• Dip fresh fruits into the melted chocolate such as chocolate covered bananas.

• Mix it into frozen banana ice cream.

Sweet Tooth

Do you still want to give your valentine something sweet? Try this easy and delicious avocado mousse recipe:

Ingredients

• 2 large avocados

• 1/2 cup almond milk

• ¼ cup cocoa powder

• 2 teaspoons honey

• Fresh fruit (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)

Directions

1. In a food processor or blender, combine avocado, almond milk, cocoa powder and honey until a thick pudding is formed.

2. Place in fridge covered to chill for about 10-15min and top with fresh fruit.

This Valentine’s Day, focus on being mindful while still treating you and your sweetheart.

Your Turn to Take Action: What will you do for your valentine this Valentine’s Day? Let me know in the comments below!

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