TOPS: Be your own Valentine

MILWAUKEE, Wis. – This Valentine’s Day, give yourself a little tender loving care, says TOPS Club.
Make time to restore balance to your mind, body, and spirit — and manage stress, find rest and improve your quality of life, says the nonprofit weight-loss support organization.
—Be kind to yourself, and your stomach, by cooking a healthy meal. Follow it up with a nourishing cup of hot tea.
—Give yourself flowers. Arrange a bouquet or brighten up your space with a flowering plant. Houseplants can improve indoor air quality — a healthy bonus.
3. Treat yourself to a massage. Warm up coconut oil or sesame oil for a simple yet soothing self-massage.
4. Sink yourself into a bathtub, and wash away your worries. Epsom salt with a lavender scent can relieve sore muscles after exercise and help you relax with aromatherapy.
5. Pamper yourself by soaking your feet and giving yourself a pedicure. Skip the polish if you prefer, but take care to consider how far your feet have taken you throughout life.
6. Dress up. Looking good can make you feel good, so put on your favorite outfit for an extra boost of confidence.
7. Head to a restorative yoga class to tune in to your breath and help you let go of anxiety.
8. Allow yourself to rest more fully with a nap, especially if you didn’t get enough sleep the previous night. Then wake up refreshed.
9. Love yourself first. Reflect on your strengths and pause in gratitude for these gifts. Then think about how you can share them with others.
10. Visit www.tops.org to find a local TOPS chapter near you; your first visit is free. If you join, TOPS members receive access to the Self-Care Program, which includes tips for reducing stress, pursuing your goals and more.
Take Off Pounds Sensibly promotes successful weight management with a “Real People. Real Weight Loss.” philosophy that combines support from others at weekly chapter meetings, healthy eating, regular exercise and wellness information.
Visitors are welcome to attend their first TOPS meeting free. Membership is $32 per year, plus nominal chapter fees. To find a local chapter, go online to www.tops.org or call 800-932-8677.