Celebrate yourself this Valentines Day by dedicating time to show your body mind or spirit some love. The post-holiday winter can feel never-ending if you don’t take proper care of yourself and dedicate time for hobbies and rest. Find something new to try, rather it’s a hobby that has always sparked your interest or something that has enticed but intimidated you.

Yoga or fitness class

Lots of studios in Des Moines and the metro area offer free or affordable classes to non-members or offer a free class to first time customers. Look into studios like Power Life Yoga , Pure Barre, and Yoga & Co  near you. This is perfect for someone who has been spending a lot of time inside during the colder months, and as some health experts joke, that exercise a “bubble bath for your brain”.

Get crafty

If yoga or working out isn’t your speed (haha), try finding a more creative outlet. This could be a clay or ceramics class, a paint and sip wine event, frequenting Des Moine’s very own crochet club or so much more. Additionally, Des Moines has plenty of arts and culture to appreciate if you would rather look than create and something to do or enjoy for all ages. This is also a great opportunity to make a thoughtful valentine for someone you care about.

Des Moines Art Center

Mainframe Studios

Kunzler Studios

Bottle & Bottega

AR Workshop Ankeny

The Art Spot on 25th

Yarn Junction Co

Shyronnie (@dsm_crochet)

Take a trip to the library

Rather or not, you like to read, the public libraries in Des Moines offer tons of different events that are free to the public. Writers’ workshops, author speaking events, and much more. The Clive library even has goats you can visit and feed.  It’s a great opportunity to learn something new, without even opening a book (but you should do that too!) Suggestions are below.

"The Pisces" by Melissa Broder

"Normal People" by Sally Rooney

"Cleopatra and Frankenstein" by Coco Mellors

"The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo" by Taylor Jenkins Reid

"Check & Mate" by Ali Hazelwood

"The Dead Roamntics" by Ashley Poston

"Anything" by Christina Lauren 

"The Invisible Life of Addie Larue" by V.E Schwab

Treat yourself

It’s totally worth it to once in a while splurge on yourself. Getting your nails done, take yourself on a date, or simply the sweater you’ve had your eye on for a while. And of course, don’t forget some flowers! For a less expensive way to show yourself love, try writing yourself a love letter (bonus points if you actually send it in the mail)!

Take time to spread love and kindness this Valentines Day. Rather you celebrate with art and creativity or food and fitness, remember to give yourself just as much lose as you give others.