Remember when you were in school and you gave Valentine’s Day cards to everyone? Wasn’t it just lovely to get arms full of greetings from your platonic friends? The feeling of having a room full of friends was one of the simple joys of childhood.
For adults, Valentine’s Day is often considered just a romantic day for couples. The obligatory boxes of chocolate, roses and occasional bling will be bought, but it doesn’t need to be just that. In fact, in other parts of the world, Valentine’s Day is celebrated as a day to recognise and appreciate friendships. There is even a humorous holiday celebrated on February 14 called “Singles Awareness Day” – a day to celebrate single life and to reiterate that one needn’t be in a relationship to be happy.
So, in honour of Valentine’s Day, Singles Awareness Day, or Friendship Day, here are a few healthy ideas on how to celebrate with friends:
- Safari Dinner Party: Never have enough time to see your friends? Well, change that in one night by having a dine-around in each other’s homes. Depending on how many houses are nearby and involved in the party, assign each destination with a course appetizers at Holly’s, soup at Jack’s, salad at Colleen’s, main course at your place and dessert elsewhere.
- Movie Date: Get ready for the Oscars on 22 February by going to see a nominated film. Sneak in some healthy snacks and bottled water to avoid candy and popcorn cravings. Then, go ahead and plan your Academy Awards party for all your friends complete with ballots, prizes, and celebrity fashion judging. Add interesting categories to the ballot for worst dress, best hair, most skin showing and best body.
- Wii & Wine Party: Invite some friends over for Wii Fit and add some healthy snacks and wine (definitely optional–it could be a Wii and Tea party!). Wear yoga or comfy clothes and bring veggies, hummus, pita and fruit. You’ll have a great time and get in some exercise together. Get your Wii Fit competition on with prizes for yoga class coupons, a gift certificate or a certificate for a dinner at a later date. Or have a games night with 30 Seconds and Pictionary. You’ll have more fun than Cupid.
- Friendship Valentines: Remember those childhood Valentines? Now that we’re grown up, why not pretend we’re not? Give Valentine’s Day treats to all your friends. Bake some cookies or create a small bouquet of flowers. Just make an effort.
Valentine’s Day is a fabulous opportunity to show you care for your friends. It’s a wonderful time to express your gratitude – spend time together, share some chocolates or treats, or simply phone to catch up.
Make it a healthy, happy and less-stressed month. Speak to your Indwe Risk Services consultant to check your cover. Visit www.indwerisk.co.za or call 0860 13 13 14.