Whether single or in a relationship you can still celebrate this February

By Elizaveta Shchigireva

As Valentine’s Day approaches, we need to remember that for some it can be a difcult time. Valentine’s focuses on romantic relationships but the idea of self-love is often completely forgotten.

The commercialisation and promotion of romance during this season creates an illusion that being alone on Valentine’s Day can be miserable, abnormal and unacceptable.

This can lead to intense insecurity and devastating feelings of loneliness which can be detrimental to mental health.

The Greek language distinguishes four diferent types of love: Storge (empathy bond), Philia (friend bond), Eros (romantic love) and Agape (unconditional God love).

Although Valentine’s Day is meant to celebrate all types of love, there is a disproportionate focus on Eros, characterised by sex and desire. This portrayal of what love really is, is harmful to society as a whole.

Social media creates unrealistic expectations around Valentine’s Day and the pressure to be in love can be overwhelming. It can feel as if your entire identity is defned by your rela- tionship status.

It is important to keep in mind that getting into a relationship because of societal pressure or fear of being alone is not healthy. It is unlikely for such relationships to work out and

–may cause emotional distress. Luckily, Singles Awareness Day is celebrated on February 15 as an antidote to Valentine’s Day. It is an unofcial holiday which celebrates single status and love in all forms, recognis- ing the love between friends, family and loving yourself.

Some good ways to celebrate Singles Awareness Day might be with a spa day, meditation, taking yourself on a date, or writing a love letter to yourself.

Palentine’s Day and Galentine’s Day are also celebrated in February, both are on February 13 and celebrate platonic friendships, usually but not exclusively among women.

It is important to keep in mind that we do not need to be in a relationship to enjoy and celebrate life.

There are plenty of benefts of being single: getting to know yourself, controlling your own life, getting to know new people and more time for family.

There is no need to rush into a relationship. Being single does not imply loneliness as it gives a chance to connect with new people. Whether you are single or dating someone, you should never forget to love yourself entirely.