Here are some easy ways to show love with simple mindful actions that foster genuine connection and appreciation.
You might be in love with the love of the month, or you might not be into the whole Valentine’s Day thing. With $18 billion spent on flowers, chocolates, gifts and restaurants in the United States every February, it’s safe to say that we have some very specific cultural ideas about how to express love.
So why not really use this opportunity to celebrate love?
Here are some ways to show love during this Valentine’s Day month, or any time of year, and none of them cost a penny.
Listen – really listen. This means giving them their open-minded, genuinely interested attention, according to mental communication experts Martin and David Rome hope. Take time to fully absorb what they are saying. Body language, word choice, tone of voice – you’d be surprised what you’re missing.
Offer your full presence when you’re together. Don’t look at your phone. Show love by showing it completely without any distractions. Resist the usual complaining about work. Slipping into autopilot, says neuropsychologist and author Marsha Lucas. Retrain your mind for love.
Appreciate the little things someone does for you – and do something in return. Relationship coach Josh Wise suggests that couples take gratitude a step further: Discuss the kindness you received and how it made you feel. Thus, you need to multiply the impact of thoughtful actions—by first experiencing it, then sharing it, and then seeing how your recognition lifts the other person.
Compassion. It is an essential ingredient for any healthy relationship. According to psychologist Ronald Siegel Mindfulness solution“When we can really be with someone and empathize with their experience, even when it’s painful, the relationship deepens.”
This article also appeared in the February 2014 issue Mindfulness Magazine
