Photography by Jasmin Chew (@majestical_jasmin) from Unsplash
February marks a month full of love, and while a certain kind of love usually gets more emphasis (and no complaints here!)— the warmth from it is a good reminder to celebrate the types of connections we often overlook.
Although life has changed drastically, and every time we think we've finally got the hang of coping with these changes, certain circumstances could get in the way of connecting with the people we love, causes we care about, and of course, ourselves. Take the time to look back and see which ones you've nurtured and which ones need a little more watering. It's an integral part of our journey to make sure our journey is one filled with life and love shared and triumphed in a broad, beautiful spectrum.
In the spirit of the month of love, we want to try elevating it by doing (and perhaps a little bit of undoing) mindful practices to connect wherever we could put love into action. Here's how:
For the special one who's seen you through your ups and downs
Photography by Inés (@taaarde) from Unsplash
Progress isn't always pretty. While we're not particularly hesitant to share our wins, we could get pretty vulnerable when it comes to the ones we are a bit more hesitant to share with others. That is why Valentine's month could be a month where we fully recognize partners, best friends, co-workers, or family who has graciously let our most vulnerable selves just be even if they have their own reservations and vulnerabilities. Make this month extra special by sharing an experience— one that could contribute to whatever journey they're on, too.
Explore shareable Progress Plans with your partner, best friend, or family. Great for any time of the year.
For the things that will matter in the future
Photography by Womanizer (@womanizer) from Unsplash
When it comes to committing to better skin, one of the missing, yet perhaps fundamental keys to making it one that would stay with us is the element of fun. Contrary to what the overwhelming image skincare has, you can make it more manageable by purposefully choosing what you’ll enjoy.
Our journey towards progress isn't a road we'll walk alone. Neither are we the only Woman in Progress taking a journey towards betterment. This month could be a great way to tap into causes that matter as a way to recognize every woman, every person in pursuit of a better future, better self, or better outlook in life. With enough openness and readiness to learn (or unlearn,) we'll be able to learn more about how we could do our part. Remember, help doesn't always need to come in kind. Share a cause. Educate. It'll help more than you could ever know!
To help communities that need to get back on track with their journeys, read up on For The Future PH's initiatives for local communities.
For the ones who stuck by you throughout your journey
Photography from Simply Skin
Whether it's your siblings, guardian, chosen family, or close-circle friends— let's allow the month of love to let out our most present self whenever we're with them. Listen to understand. Understand to empathize or be with them the best way possible. More than the lunches out and the quick trips, remember that the best way to connect with them is making sure their stories are heard and that they know they're not alone in their journey.
Share a reminder that you're listening to their (skin) journey and that you're always with them with a Gift Card from Simply Skin.
For people we share unique experiences with
Photography by Taisiia Shestopal (@taisiia_shestopal) from Unsplash
We once believed that the people we mark as significant others, chosen families, and best friends were the only ones that matter in our journey. While that's always an option and a choice we make, there's no denying that we held special bonds with people who went through the unique experiences we did. Perhaps it was that college friend who never failed to help us out with university woes or that one co-worker we particularly enjoyed the company of that we no longer get to catch up with. Those are still connections that made up our journey. Try to connect with them this month with a quick hello, and how are you. Who knows what a "This reminded me of you" could do to someone's day?
Share a scent that reminded you of particular places or times with them. Good for gifting, or just to say how you hold memories associated with it close to you until this day!
For YOU
Photography by Yana Hurskaya (@yana_hurskaya) from Unsplash
We know how easy it is to get carried away and show love, be present, and be mindful of people, causes, and experiences we care about. Our only tip for Valentine's Day and beyond? Connect with yourself. Often and unabashedly. It's one way we could not only thanks ourselves for how far we've gone but recognize what else we could do. Dedicate more days (perhaps than what you're used to) to completely unwind and wander mindfully to let your truest thoughts, reflections, and musings come out.
Bring out the hobbies you've put aside for a while or discover new ones. See what you could ignite a love to connect (and disconnect) here.
Valentine's Month might be the perfect month to celebrate all these connections, but don't let it stop there. Nurture the connections you're missing out on. Water what you want to nurture slowly but surely, and let the results shine through.
Photography by Womanizer (@womanizer) and Karina Zhukovskaya (@cocarinne) from Unsplash