Jan 17, 20223 min read

Valentine's Is Not Just For Couples

Jean Plamann & her granddaughter Crysta Abelseth

It comes once a year and is the most loving, and at the same time, dreaded holiday of the year, Valentine's Day. It is strategically commercialized to appeal to love birds and

everyone else seems irrelevant. Media and stores don't make it any easier as we are inundated with scenes of couples holding hands while strolling down a sunset beach and chocolate hearts in every direction. Society as a whole has suffered major mental health distress for the last two years, with all the coronavirus social distancing restrictions, loneliness is even more prevalent.

This year we need to step out of the social stigma that happiness depends on one's social status and celebrate all meaningful relationships in our lives. Our children, grandchildren, aunts, uncles, friends, neighbors, local business owners, mail carriers, health care workers, are all worth celebrating on this special day. Valentine's Day should be a day where the most cherished thing in our lives is celebrated: PEOPLE.

The first thing we need to realize is that we are not alone regardless of our circumstances. Statistics show that over 40% of the population is single and that rate is double of what it was in the 1960's. Focusing on and celebrating the people in our lives who enhance our wellbeing with their presence, will bring immense joy this Valentine's Day!

The fake Hollywood love-sick movies with unrealistic characters displaying their undying love through horse-drawn carriage rides, rose petal walkways leading to candle lit dinners has destroyed the true meaning of Valentine's Day. Love is all around us in the little things. It is up to us to open our eyes and see it. It is a call or text from friends and family, the smiles on our loved one's faces when they greet us, a random act of kindness among strangers.

How do we get past this stigma? How do we overcome the mental health issues we are experiencing? By giving to those we love in our lives. The ones we consider to be the pearls amongst all the oyster shells. By looking past our current circumstances and seeing others around us who need encouragement like a friend who lost a loved one or is ill. According to Psychology Today, when we give to others our social fears are

reduced, our mental health improves, and trust and empathy are enhanced. There are many forms of giving and all giving works wonders! Just the simple act of smiling at someone will brighten both of your days.

Let's start a Valentine's Day Challenge to fill every day with small acts of giving as an effective way to bring happiness to others which will benefit our health and well-being in the process. Share your acts of giving by tagging The Estate Center using hashtag #givelove and we will share your posts! If you are looking for ways to give to those who are irreplaceable in your life, we are here to help. We carry beautiful vases you can fill with flowers, heart-felt jewelry pieces, candle holders, candy dishes waiting to be filled with your loved one's favorite candy, and many more gift ideas.

We have the perfect gifts for all of your Valentine's Day needs! Shop Here: https://www.laestatecenter.com/

Let this be a reminder to all of us that a mate is not needed to enjoy Valentine's Day. Instead, let's spread the love this Valentine's Day by giving and choosing to see the love that is all around us.

Challenge: Tag The Estate Center and use hashtag #givelove when you give to someone and we will share your posts on social media! HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY!