How to Celebrate Valentine’s Day with Meaning and Intention

Valentine’s Day has long been associated with heart-shaped chocolates, flower bouquets, and extravagant dinner reservations. But have we lost sight of what the holiday is truly about? Instead of focusing on last-minute gestures and obligatory gifts, experts suggest a more meaningful approach to celebrating love—one that embraces deeper connections, intentional acts of appreciation, and self-love.

“Celebrating love shouldn’t mean swinging by the neighborhood pharmacy and picking up a random box of chocolates or some flowers conveniently placed by the cash register the day before,” shares Jaya Jaya Myra, a former immunologist turned mind-body wellness expert who coined the term “conscious character development”. “Unfortunately, that’s what it has become for a lot of us, and we need to rethink the way we perceive Valentine’s Day.”

Rethinking the holiday means shifting away from commercial expectations and embracing love in its purest form. For many, Valentine’s Day is centered around romantic relationships, but love comes in many different forms—including friendships, family bonds, and self-love.

“When we are in relationships, it’s easy to become focused on our partner. However, we should make efforts to celebrate other loves in our lives, whether that’s in the form of friends or especially ourselves,” Jaya Jaya Myra emphasizes. Whether that means calling a childhood friend, writing a heartfelt note to a family member, or taking time to pamper yourself, expanding the scope of Valentine’s Day can make it a richer and more fulfilling experience.

One of the key issues with the way Valentine’s Day is often approached is that it becomes more of an obligation than an opportunity to genuinely celebrate love. Many people fall into the trap of treating the holiday as a checklist—reserving a table at a nice restaurant, purchasing a bouquet of roses, or selecting a gift at the last minute. While these acts can be thoughtful, they may lack true intention and emotional depth.

“So many of us see Valentine’s Day as something to be done,” Jaya Jaya Myra points out. “You set reminders on your calendar to make reservations, pick up a gift, or have flowers delivered. When we think of it that way, there is very little intention in the holiday, and we miss out on what it truly means: celebrating love with our loved ones and ourselves.”

To celebrate Valentine’s Day with greater purpose, it’s essential to be more mindful about the ways we express love. Love isn’t about grand gestures—it’s about making people feel seen, heard, and valued. Rather than simply going through the motions, taking the time to consider what would truly bring joy to a loved one can transform the holiday into something far more meaningful.

“It’s important to acknowledge and be mindful of the act of love. What does it mean to love someone? What does it mean to love ourselves?” Jaya Jaya Myra asks. “We all want to be heard, valued, and appreciated. Well, that’s the best way we can love others too! Make time to listen to what your loved ones say, and what they don’t say too! Find something special to do with them that they will enjoy, and remember to set time for yourself as well.”

Celebrating Valentine’s Day with intention might look different for everyone. For some, it may mean having a heartfelt conversation with a partner rather than exchanging material gifts. Others may choose to volunteer their time to spread kindness and love within their communities. For those who are single, it could be a time to focus on self-care—whether that’s treating oneself to a day of relaxation, engaging in a favorite hobby, or simply reflecting on personal growth and self-compassion.

Takeaway

The key takeaway is that love is more than just a transactional holiday gesture—it’s an ongoing practice that deserves attention and care. By focusing on the essence of love—connection, gratitude, and appreciation—we can create a Valentine’s Day that feels authentic and truly meaningful.

This year, instead of defaulting to routine traditions, take a moment to reflect on how you can celebrate love in a way that aligns with its true purpose. Whether it’s through words, actions, or quality time, making Valentine’s Day intentional will undoubtedly make it more special—not just for others, but for yourself as well.