Valentine’s Day brings advertisements galore of the types of presents you should buy, the type of gestures a man or woman should make and how the receiving party should react. But, how much is discussed about the kind of mindset one should have if you do not have a special someone? Here are ten ways that either you or someone you know can take to feel at ease.

1. Mediate/Pray

Studies have shown that when in a funk, meditating may help the nerves and the feelings of being single. According to the app, Headspace, there’s quite a bit of people that experience loneliness. For adults, about 20 to 40 percent of them report this, while for millennials, it’s around 30 percent. Meditating for at least 30 minutes a day can improve moods.

2. Reading A Book

Sometimes, reading a pleasurable book can prove useful, especially on days where everyone else seems to be in love. There has always been a massive benefit to reading a book in cold weather, and especially on days like today. But by reading a book, you can also take yourself on a journey of self-discovery, fantasy, or even mystery. There’s a variety of books with genres that will be sure to get your mind off of the real world and dive into someone else’s. You could visit your local library, browse on Amazon or Google to find out more. Maybe you could even strike up a conversation with a fellow student and ask them about the books they may be reading for a class or just in general what they may be interested in reading. There are all sorts of books that you can look up, such as self-help, books about learning a new language, or how to learn a new hobby in a short amount of time.

3. Listen To Music

Valentine’s Day does not mean that all of your jams have to be full of heartbreakers, tearjerkers, or breathtaking love ballads. Since there are different genres of music, perhaps listening to upbeat music, classical, or even something outside of your comfort zone. It may prove to get you out of your head and onto the dance floor! Try taking some time to get on Youtube, Spotify, (maybe ask friends or classmates what they are listening to), and let your heart make room for new songs to jam to!

4. Talk To A Friend

There are times when you may feel like being in isolation does not seem to help. It’s okay to admit when you need someone to talk to, someone that you can trust. In this case, having a friend or family member that you feel you can confide in is key for days like Valentine’s Day. It could also improve your relationships with these friends and family, by letting them know they are trustworthy people. Having an ear to listen to, or even that shoulder to cry on, is really a benefit for one’s mental state and it helps to get things off your chest.

5. Talk To A Therapist

Apps like Better Health and searching locally for therapists can connect people to professionals who will listen for your need to vent and reach solutions if need be.

6. Go For A Walk

Going for a walk and taking in nature can take one’s mind off of the nervousness of Valentine’s Day. Taking a hike outdoors can improve your mental health and change the way you look at life and yourself. According to an article published by Peloton, walking can also improve self esteem as well as produce creative thoughts and feelings. Walking gives one a chance to reflect. Plus, the added benefit is taking care of your body. Who knows where your feet will take you? Perhaps you find a favorite place to recharge before heading back. As you are walking, remind yourself of just how amazing you are. With affirmation techniques, listening to nature, and reflecting on yourself, the possibilities are endless.

7. Develop A New Hobby/Skill

If you are wondering when you are finally going to get the time to do something different, outside of your comfort zone, try dabbling in a new skill, or taking up a hobby. Maybe learning a pottery class, or glass making, might prove to be enriching. Just about anything that will shift your focus onto doing something fun is key. Experience is the best teacher, after all.

8. Watch TV

Who said that watching TV will rot our brains? Sometimes, there’s nothing more entertaining and enjoyable to do on a day than to curl up in bed or on the couch and watch television. Maybe catching up on that show you and your colleagues talk about at the watercooler, or just a show you started watching but haven’t had the time to finish. This can prove to be very relaxing and maybe get some laughs in.

9. Clean Your Space

Cleaning can be relaxing, and can even bring up nostalgic memories of good times with family and friends. Plus, cleaning can help to bring some peace if there are things that you need to throw away that may otherwise be triggering in some way. It also brings a sense of accomplishment when you finally can take a deep breath and look at a neat place. If you need any tips or tricks that may help you accomplish this in a timeframe, there are Youtube videos that can prove useful.

10. Unplug

Even though there’s strength in community and there’s nothing wrong with partnering up with like-minded individuals, there’s also nothing wrong with unplugging from society for a while. Sometimes it’s good to put down your phone or laptop and just do nothing. Just let your thoughts run wild. Being away from the phone or laptop can create a sense of relief from the pressures of communicating with people that demand your attention all of the time. Maybe setting aside an hour or 30 minutes may even help to get your thoughts and emotions into perspective.

These are just a few things that you could do to deal with the pressures of being single on Valentine’s Day. However, they may not be enough. If you need help, reach out to someone, even if it is just to vent. You can contact the suicide prevention hotline by texting or calling 988, which is free and open 24 hours a day. You will be directed to non-judgmental, compassionate people who are committed to making sure you are heard and seen. Being single on Valentine’s Day does not have to be this huge missed opportunity that society attempts to make. The love that you pour into yourself will always be enough. It plants a seed of growth and maturity and that is something that the world cannot take away.