February 12, 2025

Laura’s self-love dopamine menu for Valentine’s Day

Valentine’s Day is just around the corner, and this time of year can often feel like a whirlwind of pressure and comparison.

Maybe it’s the pressure to be in a relationship or you’re left wondering why your relationship isn’t picture-perfect like the carefully curated high-light reels you seen online. Whatever this day brings up for you, I’m here to remind you that you don’t need to rely on grand gestures from others to be happy and loved. The most important relationship you’ll have in your life is the one you build and nurture with yourself.

So, as a reminder to show yourself some love this Valentine’s Day, here is my ‘self-love dopamine menu’! It’s a guide to help you celebrate yourself and boost those feel good feels. These small but meaningful actions are designed to help you reconnect with who matters most – you!

1. Take yourself on a solo date

We need to normalise solo dates in 2025 because they are absolutely underrated. Seriously, why don’t we do these more often?

Take yourself out to dinner at your favourite spot, or go to the park with a book and your fave food (bakery snacks, takeaway, a coffee – you do you!) If you’re more of a movie buff, head to the cinemas solo and enjoy being entirely in your own company. Solo dates give you the opportunity to show yourself the same care and attention you might reserve for others.

Try looking inwards and asking yourself, What would light me up today? Then, go do that unapologetically. You deserve it.

2. Start the day with a morning affirmations

Think of it as a little pep talk from you to you. Affirmations are incredibly powerful and something you should absolutely be doing every day – not just on Valentine’s Day.

Look yourself in the mirror and remind yourself of this truth:

  • I am capable
  • I am worthy
  • I am loved

By doing this, you’re setting the tone for the rest of your day. Speaking to yourself with kindness and encouragement is one of the simplest but most impactful ways to boost your dopamine levels and deeper sense of self-worth.

3. Move your body (in a way you enjoy!)

Forget working out to punish yourself, or exercising in a way that feels like a chore. Instead, find a movement that genuinely brings you joy, celebrates how strong you are and the amazing things your body is capable of.

It could be a walk around your fave park or beach, a high-energy dance class, a Pilates session at home, or even just a slow stretch on your yoga mat. Whatever it is, choose something that makes you feel energised and alive. Movement doesn’t just boost those feel-good endorphins – it’s a physical way of gifting yourself better mental clarity and the best mood for your day.

4. Buy yourself a gift

If your love language is gifts, don’t wait for someone else to treat you. Buy yourself something small but meaningful!

Maybe it’s a bouquet of flowers for your dining table, that candle you’ve been eyeing off, or maybe it’s your fave lunch from the local cafe – show yourself that you know how to give as thoughtfully as you hope to receive.

Remember, you don’t need permission to spoil yourself – it’s your day, make it special!

5. Journal your thoughts

Journaling is one of the most underrated yet powerful forms of self-love. It’s a space just for you. A private space where you can vent, dream, and celebrate yourself without judgment.

Pack up your notebook and take it along on your solo date – tick off two activities at once! We love that. Or curl up at home with a cup of tea and start reflecting. Write down what you’re grateful for, how you’re feeling, or maybe reflect on any goals you’ve made recently.

Trust me when I say journaling not only clears mental clutter but also reconnects you with aspects of yourself that you might not have checked in with for a little while.

6. Bake your favourite snack

This one’s for those who find joy and calm in baking!

Whether it’s gooey brownies, a Kic recipe, or a nostalgic family fave, baking is one of the most mindful activities you can do. Plus, you get to enjoy the yummy food once you’re done. It’s a win-win!

Valentine’s Day doesn’t have to be about relationships, gifts from others, or striving to meet idealised versions of love seen on social media. Put the pressure, expectations, and comparisons in the bin. They don’t serve you and you don’t need to pay attention to them.

Instead, use this menu to focus on the relationship you have with yourself. It’s a reminder that you hold the key to your own fulfilment, not others. Treat yourself to love, care, and compassion – not just this Valentine’s Day, but every single day.

With love, Laura xox