Going out to eat has become a favorite pastime and a go-to social event. Night out with the girls? Dinner and cocktails. Date night? Movie and a romantic dinner. Business meeting? Lunch with your boss. It seems like no matter what the event, food is always involved. Now there’s nothing inherently wrong with this, but when you’re trying to lose weight, the temptation of your favorite meals (in rather large portions might we add) at your favorite restaurants can be too much to bear.
We know that Valentine’s Day is a special occasion so you may have worked it into your plan to splurge a little bit, but since the special day falls on a Saturday this year, we thought it would be fun to suggest some things you could do instead of the standard dinner date.
Go For a Hike
Instead of waiting ‘til nightfall, grab your honey and hit those trails midday. You’ll be able to take in some fresh air all while spending some quality time catching up with each other without the interruption of a lot of people around. The added bonus: instead of eating too many calories, you’ll actually be burning them!
Sunset Walk
The sun rises and falls every single day and yet many of us miss the chance to just stop for a moment and really look. Valentine’s Day is a great time to take a leisurely stroll through your neighborhood or a local park and then sit down on a blanket and just enjoy the beauty of the earth while you also enjoy your company. You can also schedule your hike so that you reach the top at sunset.
Dance Lessons
Have you ever wanted to learn to salsa? Well now’s the time! Taking a dance lesson is a wonderful way to bond with your partner or get close to a new fling while also having a few laughs AND burning calories. Just don’t take yourself too seriously and you’re in for a treat!
Couple’s Massage
If you’re overworked and over-stressed, or if you just need a little down time for some pampering, a couple’s massage may be just the thing you need on Valentine’s Day. Massages can boost immunity, reduce pain, and relieve stress so you’ll be able to enjoy the rest of your night. If you’re really lucky, you may even be able to get two massage therapists to come to your house so you don’t have to step foot outside your door.
Cooking Lessons
Okay, so this isn’t avoiding food entirely BUT cooking lessons are a great way to have some fun while also learning how to cook your own meals at home. You can even make it more beneficial to you by choosing a cooking class that focuses on healthy cooking or making clean meals. You’ll have fun and learn a life skill that you can carry with you into the future.
Comedy Show
You know what they say – laughter is the best medicine. Grab your date and go hit a comedy show. It doesn’t matter if it’s a big name comedian or a local stand-up comedian at your neighborhood bar. Spending the night laughing is a great way to get rid of some stress and really let go.
