Whether you send cards, chocolates, flowers or none of the above, don’t think of Valentine’s Day as a commercial holiday or one that is only for lovers. Any occasion focused on the expression of feelings of love for the people who are important to you presents a perfect opportunity not only to strengthen emotional bonds but also to boost mental health.

Close, loving relationships have numerous positive effects on the mind and body. Though it’s not a cure-all, studies have shown that love helps decrease stress, depression and anxiety. It also helps improve self-esteem and, consequently, self-care such as healthy eating and exercise.

Research also indicates that high levels of social bonds may result in better prognosis in such conditions as cancer, heart attacks and other illnesses. And the reverse is also true: studies of mortality consistently show that people with the lowest level of involvement in social relationships are more likely to die sooner than those with greater involvement.

So, love—and the wonderful endorphins it produces— is truly a many splendored thing.

Following are some tips on how to spread the love this Valentine’s Day—and just about any day of the year!

• Write your partner, children or other loved one a note saying what you love most about them.
• Be a hugger! Not only will it make you feel closer to the “huggee,” but it will also boost your immune system.
• If you don’t already have one, consider getting a pet. There’s nothing better than coming home to a being who is full of love and affection for you and your family.
• Are you intrigued by meditation? There’s a particular kind, called loving-kindness, that is a wonderful way to heighten your connections not just with those you love but with the world at large.
• And remember, if you are alone this Valentine’s Day, don’t despair. Treat yourself to a favorite activity, whether it’s a bubble bath or some binge watching of your favorite TV show. Loving yourself, as well as loving others, is key to a happy, healthy life. As Mahatma Gandhi said, “Where there is love, there is life.”

Sources:

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3150158/

https://www.psychiatryadvisor.com/mood-disorders/the-positive-effects-of-love-on-mental-health/article/401655/

https://health.usnews.com/health-news/health-wellness/articles/2016-02-03/the-health-benefits-of-hugging

http://www.apa.org/news/press/releases/2011/07/cats-dogs.aspx