Spoiling your Valentine the Healthy Way

Valentine’s Day is a special time of year to show that special someone how much they mean to you.  Whether you choose to go all out or not, you’ll never be sorry you expressed love to a loved one. A Valentine’s Day gift doesn’t have to be the cliché chocolate or candy. Why not spoil them with a gift that can assist them on their way to good health?

Sentimental Gifts

Rather than tempting your beloved with chocolates and candy, consider a gift that has more sentiment. Some ideas for sentimental gifts include:

• Handpicked flowers
• A poem that describes your feelings, handwritten on beautiful paper
• A photo album of memories you’ve shared together

Active Date Gift Ideas

Quality time is one of the most meaningful gifts. Bundle up and plan an active outing instead. If your Valentine likes to get out and about, or you’re just overdue for a date night, here are some great active ideas:

• Ice Skating or rollerblading
• Kayaking on the Brisbane River
• Completing the Story Bridge climb
• Rock climbing at Kangaroo Point
• Couples dance classes
• Tandem bike riding at the beach
• Golf, surf or tennis lessons

Give to one another by giving back

Ask a date to volunteer with you at a local charity. Giving back is a healthy habit that will boost your mood and beat stress.

Romantic Couples Massage

Massage is a great way to relax and de-stress. Why not do it together? Many massage businesses and salons offer couples massage – just mention it when booking.

Green Thumb

If the family vegie patch looks a bit worse for wear, head to your local nursery and buy some seeds for tomatoes, carrots, lettuce or herbs of your choice for healthy homemade salads. This gift looks great packaged in a hamper along with some gardening tools, gloves and a red watering can. If your love adores roses, you could also plant some rose bush seeds so they’re blooming year long.

Healthy Picnic in the Park

Ditch the expensive dinner and high energy food options at restaurants and opt for something more personal. Spend some time outdoors with your sweetie and pack a nice, healthy menu for the occasion. Try foods that will travel well in a cooler bag such as a simple salad, slices of frittata and a fruit salad. Finish the day with a long walk around the park wearing your FitBit to track your steps.

Get the Heart Rate Up

Play off the heart theme of the holiday and grab your significant other a new heart rate monitor. You can even buy them in the shape of a heart if you really want to get into the spirit!

Sharing is Caring

If you do go out for a romantic dinner date, order one entrée to share. Many restaurant servings are enough for two – splitting will keep you from over doing it.

And finally, use the opportunity to tell your loved one how you feel about him or her, and share ways that you can support each others health and wellness!