February is here, and the cold is still tickling at our noses and toes. Spring flowers will be peeking out before we know it, but for now, we’re still bundling up and pushing through winter together.
February is also my birthday month, and each year I find myself feeling grateful for another trip around the sun. It’s also the month of Valentine’s Day - the season of love… at least for some.
I was 50 years old when I decided to get married. Leading up to that, I spent many years intentionally single - focusing on raising my daughter and pouring my heart into building this business and serving our patients. During those single years, Valentine’s Day sometimes came with an extra dose of loneliness. And truthfully, even when I was in relationships, Valentine’s Day sometimes brought disappointment when expectations weren’t met or appreciation didn’t feel fully expressed.
And I knew I wasn’t alone. Many people struggle with Valentine’s Day for different reasons - loss, divorce, relationship challenges, unmet expectations, or simply feeling disconnected in a world that can feel very busy and very noisy.
Then one morning in 2013, standing in the shower (where all great ideas seem to happen!), I had a thought that turned into something I call The Valentine’s Day Project.
The Valentine’s Day Project is simple:
Spend the entire day intentionally showing love to everyone you encounter.
Maybe it’s a random act of kindness for the widow down the street.
Maybe it’s extra patience with the grocery store clerk or sliding them a small gift card to let them know they are appreciated and seen.
Maybe it’s encouraging words, a thoughtful card or a single stem flower for a coworker walking through a hard season.
Or maybe it’s simply a smile for a stranger who looks like they could use one.
Because here’s the beautiful truth - while it feels wonderful to receive love, it often feels even better to give it.
When I started this project, I thought I was doing something for others. What I quickly realized was that I received just as much - if not more - in return. It shifted how I viewed Valentine’s Day completely. Instead of something that could feel heavy or disappointing, it became something I looked forward to each year.
And here’s the functional medicine piece I love sharing:
Acts of kindness can literally change your chemistry. They can increase serotonin, dopamine, and endorphins - supporting mood, motivation, and overall well-being. Love and connection aren’t just emotional experiences… they are biological ones too.
So as we move through another cold winter month, I encourage you to share love generously - with friends, family, coworkers, and strangers. The world could use a little more of that right now.
At Movement, we’ll be doing the same. And this month, we’re also sharing many of the things we love - from health trends we’re excited about, to nourishing Valentine’s meals, to beauty products, gifts, and tools that support you feeling your absolute best.
I encourage you to give a little extra love to others this month and watch what changes within and around YOU!
Yours in Health,
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