Many single people may truly feel content about not having an “other half,” but they must admit that the feeling of solitariness grows when Valentine’s Day is near. There’s no shame in longing for the touch of another person on this passionate holiday, but being single doesn’t mean you can’t still have a romantic, candle-lit night in. Since when was it a crime to watch a cheesy rom-com while eating chocolate-covered strawberries by yourself? 

Set the mood 

A date night is nothing without an intimate atmosphere. Close the curtains, dim the lights and light up a few candles. Choose scented candles with your favorite aromas, or put some moody, white stick candles on display. Top off the ambience by putting on a playlist of your favorite romantic songs in the background. 

Table for one, please

Nothing says “I love you” like someone cooking for you. Show yourself some love by making a fancy dish. Chicken alfredo and mac and cheese are easy and comforting dishes that have just the right touch of fanciness. For that added “date” element, make something more hands-on, like sushi or gnocchi from scratch. Set the table, pour yourself a glass of sparkling grape juice and tuck in. 

Soak away your troubles

Believe it or not, hygiene can be romantic. Bubble baths are inviting and intimate and much more than just the glorified counterpart to showers. The warm water and intoxicating scents set the perfect scene for self-bonding time. Use a bubble bath featuring your favorite scent and fizz it up with aromatic bath bombs. Add the final and much needed touch of sprinkling rose petals around the tub, even in the water, and luxuriate in fluffy bubbles made just for you.  

Sweet as can be

Spice up a perfect date night with some sugar, literally. Many treats can be made ahead, like the most “Valentine’s” of all sweets, chocolate-covered strawberries. Melt some chocolate, dip abnormally large strawberries in it, decorate with sprinkles, crushed nuts or coconut shavings and stick them in the fridge. Make brownies easily with boxed mix, or for something more cloying and chocolatey, from scratch. You’ll find that the aroma of brownies baking in the oven is more alluring than any candle or perfume. 

Pass the popcorn

Every date night needs some form of entertainment. If you want to take the opportunity to bawl your eyes out while deploring others for being in a relationship, grab some tissues and switch on a bittersweet romantic drama. You may want to deviate from tradition and watch a comedy or action film instead. Now would be the perfect time to enjoy the sweet treats you made ahead. 

The emotional burden of being single on Valentine’s Day can be completely lifted by practicing a little self-care. Remember that the best part about being single is not having to share your chocolate with anyone.