As you all know, Valentine’s Day can get a little crazy and consumer driven at times what with diamond rings, bling and other fun gift things, but I wanted to take the time to tell you all that there are plenty of other ways to show your appreciation and love without spending little to no money at all. The following are a few fun ways to pay favors to your special someone or even yourself.

Enjoy!

• Enjoy a Spa Day At Home: You will need:Foot spa or Large Plastic Container, 1 Cup Sea Salt, 1/4 Cup Olive Oil, 2-3 washcloths/scrub brush/pumice stone, 1-2 large towels for drying off. Optional: Essential Oil of your Choice. Whether this means you’re treating yourself or your S.O., the process is basically the same. Fill a foot spa or large plastic container (larger tupper ware works if you don’t have a foot spa!) with warm to hot water. Add 1/2 cup of sea salt to the water and mix another 1/2 cup with 1/4 cup of olive oil. Set the olive oil/salt mix aside. Pull out 2-3 washcloths and 1-2 larger sized towels. You can also bring out any other scrub brushes or pumice stones, if you have them, but it’s not mandatory. You may also add some essential oil to the hot water foot spa to lend a nice, relaxing scent to the experience if you want. Either you or your S.O. may then proceed to enjoy a nice scrub and pedicure from you! If you’re by yourself, I recommend popping in a film and letting the sea salt do all the work. Sea salt is a great scrub that can work to dissolve the dead skin on your feet while also reducing the swelling that our feet endure everyday from walking, exercise, etc. You may also follow this with a massage or simply, the naughty ;). You know the drill!

• Full Body Massage & More!: You Will Need: Your choice of massage oil, lubricant, and if you choose, massage tools. Of course, you knew this would be mentioned at some point or another! After all, what better way to show someone affection and love than through tender and sensual touch? This one is pretty simple and cheap. All you really need is massage oil. Simply have whoever you want to massage lie down, rub some massage oil onto your hands and massage as you please. Whether you choose to go more erotic or keep it platonic is up to you, but I recommend asking the person ahead of time if they have any back issues or neck problems to avoid any injury. If you’re single, invite a guy or girl friend over and take turns! There is nothing wrong with a little friendly relaxation! Plus, strictly platonic means you can chat and hang out in a stress free environment away from the V-Day insanity that will inevitably ensue in any public place you venture to on this day. If you’re taken, this might just be a nice change of pace for you and your significant other.

• Wine & Dine: You Will Need: Recipes for the items you want to make, utensils, wine glasses, wine (over 21 ONLY Please!), a great mix CD, and lots of laughter! This is a great idea for friends and couples alike. Making dinner as a group or couple can both be great fun. You can choose recipes together to try and enjoy new flavors. Sip some great red or white wine while you test your culinary skills and enjoy the musical stylings of your favorite artists. Whatever follows is up to you!

See you later! 😉