​​Six Inexpensive Ways to Reconnect with Your Partner This Valentine’s Day

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Written by Kirsten Nataren Crus, MA

This Valentine’s Day, think flowers, chocolates, and cards. Rather than sticking to these typical gifts, make it your goal to reconnect with your partner on a deeper level—explore their inner world, rediscover shared passions, and enjoy each other’s company in a more meaningful way. Here are five thoughtful and inexpensive ideas to help you truly connect with your partner this Valentine’s Day.

1. Write a Love Letter to Your Partner

Instead of opting for a pre-made card, take the time to write a heartfelt love letter to your partner. This personal touch shows thoughtfulness and intention. In your letter, consider including:

• A Favorite Memory: Recall a special moment you both shared that always brings a smile to your face.

• Why You Fell in Love: Reflect on what first attracted you to them and what made you fall in love.

• Your Favorite Thing About Them: Highlight a quality or trait you cherish most about your partner.

• Something You’re Looking Forward to: Share a future experience you’re excited to have together this year, whether it’s a trip, a milestone, or a shared goal.

• A Goal or Hope for the Future: Let your partner know what you hope for in the coming year—whether it’s more time together, growing closer together as a couple, or a shared project.

2. Play a Game Together

Playing a game together is a great way to connect and enjoy some time together. The key is to choose something that both of you enjoy and that encourages conversation. If you tend to get a little too competitive, opt for a more relaxed and fun game, so the focus stays on each other rather than on winning. Laughter and shared experiences while playing can deepen your connection and remind you of the simple joy in spending time together. Make sure to intentionally turn off phones and set aside any other distractions to really focus on the moment together.

3. Work on Building Love Maps

Love maps refer to understanding each other’s inner world—knowing our partner’s likes, dislikes, dreams, and experiences. In long-term relationships, people naturally change and grow over time, and it’s important to check in with each other to see where you each may have changed. This Valentine’s Day, take some time to ask each other reflective questions, such as:

• What are your current goals or dreams?

• What’s something that’s been on your mind recently?

• What keeps you up at night?

If you’re not sure where to start, you can use this article from the Gottman Institution: The Sound Relationship House: Build Love Maps

4. Get Outside and Enjoy Nature

Spending time outdoors has numerous mental and physical health benefits. It’s also a great way to spend time with your partner without the distractions of technology. Even with the cold outside, there are still some local winter activities you can enjoy together. Consider skiing/snowshoeing at the Green Woodlands Foundation (where you can warm up with hot chocolate after), walking to Rainbow Falls in Plymouth, or ice fishing.

5. Ask you Partner How They Feel Most Loved

Understanding how your partner feels most loved is an important aspect of deepening your emotional connection. People express and receive love in different ways. For some people, they really value physical connection through cuddling, holding hands, etc. For others, they really appreciate having a night off from chores and taking care of kids. Ask your partner when they feel most loved, and make it your goal to do something special for them in the next few weeks. Showing love, support, and empathy can help meet their emotional needs and strengthen your relationship.

6. Schedule an Appointment with Growing Roots

If you feel that reconnecting with your partner seems difficult or if there’s unresolved tension in your relationship, it might be time to consider professional support. Scheduling an appointment with one of our couples' therapists can provide you both with the tools and guidance you need to navigate any challenges. At Growing Roots, we help couples develop strategies for managing conflict, deepening communication, and strengthening emotional intimacy. If you’re struggling to connect or find yourselves constantly at odds, a therapist can offer you a safe space to work through issues and rediscover your connection.

​​Self-Love This Valentine's Day: 5 Ways to Care for Yourself

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Valentine's Day is traditionally seen as a celebration of love between partners, but it's also the perfect opportunity to focus on the most important relationship you’ll ever have — the one with yourself. Self-love is the foundation for living a fulfilling, balanced life, and it's something we often forget to nurture. Whether you’re in a relationship or flying solo, taking the time to care for yourself can bring a deep sense of peace and satisfaction. This Valentine’s Day, why not give yourself the gift of self-love?

Here are five simple but powerful ways to nurture yourself this season:

1. Set Boundaries (And Stick to Them)

Self-love starts with understanding your own needs and setting boundaries that honor them. Whether it’s saying no to plans that drain your energy or creating space for personal time, knowing your limits is key to emotional well-being. Valentine's Day can sometimes come with a lot of external expectations — from social media posts to the pressure to be in a relationship — but remember: your peace of mind is what matters most. Honor yourself by setting boundaries that protect your time, your energy, and your mental health.

2. Indulge in Your Favorite Self-Care Ritual

Self-care isn’t just about bubble baths (though those are lovely too!). It's about creating rituals that nourish your body, mind, and soul. Take time to engage in an activity that makes you feel good. Maybe it's a long walk in nature, journaling your thoughts, doing yoga, or listening to your favorite music. Treat yourself to something that brings you joy and peace. If you can, create a "self-love playlist" or light some candles to set the mood. This act of prioritizing your own well-being sends a message to yourself that you are worthy of love and care.

3. Celebrate Your Achievements

Self-love is also about recognizing and celebrating your accomplishments. No matter how big or small, your wins are worth acknowledging. Reflect on the progress you’ve made — whether it's in your career, personal growth, or relationships. Take a moment to express gratitude for how far you’ve come. You deserve to be proud of yourself. Write down three things you've achieved recently and give yourself credit for them. The more you celebrate yourself, the more you'll reinforce your own worth.

4. Practice Gratitude for Your Body

Your body is the vessel that carries you through life, and it deserves your appreciation. This Valentine’s Day, take a moment to connect with your body in a positive, affirming way. Engage in a gentle stretch, dance to your favorite song, or simply take a mindful moment to acknowledge your body for all the incredible things it allows you to do. Consider saying affirmations like: “I love my body for all it does for me,” or “I appreciate how strong, resilient, and capable I am.” Treating your body with love, respect, and gratitude is an essential part of self-care.

5. Give Yourself Permission to Rest

In a world that often glorifies hustle and productivity, it's important to give yourself permission to rest. On Valentine's Day, allow yourself to take a break from the demands of daily life — even if just for a few hours. Disconnect from work, social media, and the pressures that come with them. Rest isn't a luxury; it's a necessity for your mental and physical health. Whether it's through a nap, reading a book, or simply sitting in silence, rest replenishes your energy and helps you show up as your best self in all areas of life.

Bonus: Write Yourself a Love Letter

If you’re feeling extra inspired, take some time to write yourself a love letter. Pour your heart out to yourself. Acknowledge your strengths, forgive yourself for past mistakes, and express love and gratitude for everything you are. This is an exercise in self-compassion, and it can be incredibly healing. When we extend love and kindness to ourselves, we create a solid foundation for all other relationships.

Conclusion

This Valentine’s Day, remember that you are worthy of love — and that includes the love you give to yourself. By taking small, intentional steps to care for your body, mind, and soul, you're laying the groundwork for a deeper sense of happiness, peace, and fulfillment. Whether you're spending the day with a partner, friends, or by yourself, give yourself the love, attention, and respect that you deserve. After all, the relationship you have with yourself is the one that will carry you through every other relationship in your life.

So, go ahead — pamper yourself, celebrate yourself, and most importantly, love yourself. You’ve earned it. ❤️

Bucket List for 2025

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Personal Growth & Learning

1. Learn a new language — Challenge yourself with a language you've always wanted to speak.

2. Take a pottery class — Learn the art of creating something with your hands.

3. Read 50 books — Aim to read a mix of fiction, non-fiction, and self-improvement.

4. Start journaling — Create a habit of daily reflection through writing.

5. Attend a public speaking workshop — Overcome your fear of speaking in front of others.

6. Take an online course — Learn something new, from coding to photography to psychology.

7. Develop a morning meditation routine — Begin each day with a few moments of mindfulness.

8. Create a personal vision board — Visualize your goals for the future.

9. Write a letter to your future self — Revisit it at the end of the year.

10. Practice gratitude daily — Start or end your day by listing things you're grateful for.

Adventure & Travel

1. Go on a solo trip — Travel to a destination you’ve always wanted to explore on your own.

2. Try glamping — Enjoy nature without sacrificing comfort.

3. Visit a country you’ve never been to — Immerse yourself in a new culture.

4. Take a hot air balloon ride — Experience the thrill of floating above it all.

5. Go hiking on a challenging trail — Push your limits and enjoy the view from the top.

6. Go whale watching — Observe these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat.

7. Take a cross-country road trip — Plan a journey with scenic routes and unexpected stops.

8. Visit an ancient landmark — Explore the ruins of a historical wonder.

9. Try camping under the stars — Sleep in a tent and connect with the night sky.

10. Experience a traditional cultural festival — From Diwali to Oktoberfest, take part in a unique celebration.

Health & Wellness

1. Try yoga or Pilates — Take your flexibility and mindfulness to the next level.

2. Start a fitness challenge — Train for a marathon, triathlon, or other event.

3. Do a digital detox for a weekend — Disconnect from your devices for 48 hours.

4. Try a juice cleanse — Detox your body and see how it feels.

5. Take a dance class — Salsa, tango, or even hip-hop, feel the rhythm.

6. Complete a 30-day fitness challenge — Whether it’s push-ups, squats, or yoga, commit to 30 days.

7. Join a sports league — Find a local league for tennis, soccer, or whatever sport you enjoy.

8. Go on a wellness retreat — Rejuvenate your mind and body in a serene environment.

9. Try ice bathing or cold therapy — Dive into the icy water and discover its health benefits.

10. Do a mindfulness retreat — Immerse yourself in meditation for a few days.

Creativity & Art

1. Create a scrapbook — Preserve memories by documenting experiences.

2. Take up photography — Start capturing the beauty around you with a camera or smartphone.

3. Learn how to paint or draw — Tap into your artistic side and develop your skills.

4. Start a DIY home decor project — Transform your space with a creative touch.

5. Learn to play an instrument — Always wanted to learn guitar, piano, or drums? Now’s your chance!

6. Join a writing group — Share your stories and ideas with others.

7. Make your own candles or soap — Create custom gifts or personal items.

8. Design your own clothing — Experiment with fabric and create a new wardrobe.

9. Create your own YouTube channel or blog — Share your knowledge, skills, or experiences with the world.

10. Learn graphic design — Create stunning visuals for personal or professional use.

Social & Community

1. Host a dinner party for friends — Try out new recipes and enjoy quality time.

2. Volunteer for a cause you care about — Give back by helping those in need.

3. Take a group fitness class — Join a class to meet new people while working out.

4. Join a book club — Share your thoughts and ideas on literature with others.

5. Start a neighborhood cleanup initiative — Organize a local event to beautify your area.

6. Organize a charity event — Raise funds or awareness for a cause you’re passionate about.

7. Take a cooking class with friends — Learn to make a new dish and enjoy the meal together.

8. Join a board game night — Spend time bonding with friends over your favorite games.

9. Attend a live theater performance — Support local artists and experience the magic of live performance.

10. Participate in a charity walk or race — Get moving while supporting a meaningful cause.