Things to do on Valentine’s Day as a Muslim What you can do instead of eating those horrible candy hearts.

Valentine’s Day is just another holiday that we don’t celebrate as Muslims. Some still choose to participate in it, but there are many who do not. For those who don’t, being surrounded by Valentine’s Day imagery, decorations, gifts, and even social media content can make it really isolating and hard not to want to participate in it as well. If this is how you’re feeling, you are not alone! Whether you care about participating in this holiday or not, we’re sharing some alternative things you can do on Valentine’s Day!

Have a Girl’s Night

Who doesn’t love a girls night? Have a Galentine’s day with your gal pals this V-Day! Whether you are able to go out to dinner at a restaurant or choose to stay in, make it a night where you focus on yourself and your girlfriends! Get takeout from your favorite restaurant and have a baking night. Or if you’re feeling extra lazy, buy snacks  from the grocery store and watch a movie! If you’re feeling like going the self-care route, do some facials and manicures. No matter what you do, a night with the girls is always a good time!

Spend Time with Your Family

When is the last time you did something fun with your family? Have dinner together, play some games, or atch a movie/show watched as a family when you were children. Or better yet, watch some home videos!  There is nothing like than  watching a nostalgic movie or reliving old memories together!

Spend Time with Yourself

We are constantly being bombarded with people saying, “Love yourself,” but how should we practice that? On Valentine’s Day, a feeling that often arises is loneliness, especially if you do not participate in it. Knowing how to be alone and getting to know yourself are extremely important when it comes to personal growth. Celebrate yourself by reflecting on everything you are proud of and the potential your future holds.

Another less existential thing to do is treat yourself! Make yourself your favorite meal (or have someone else make it and order out). Making time for some skin care, or even buying a donut with your morning coffee can be great  ways to treat yourself. Just make this a day all about appreciating yourself and indulging in some delicacies. Personally, I enjoy reading and being asleep by 10 P.M!

Do Nothing! 

Don’t feel like you absolutely have to do something just for the sake of it or because other people are. You can just carry on with your life, business as usual, and do what you would normally do on any other day, even if it is catching up on work or rest.  Sometimes doing nothing really is the best thing to do.(Although, consider buying the half off candy the next day). 

Fast for the White Days of the Month

The Prophet (SAW) used to fast on the three bright, middle days (13th, 14th, and 15th) of every lunar month. These days are known as Ayyam-al-Bid, when the moon is full and circular, making them the brightest nights of the month. The Prophet (SAW) fasted as a way to thank Allah for brightening the dark nights, and said that fasting on these days is equivalent to fasting the whole month, as the Quran states that ‘Whoever comes with a good deed, will receive ten times as much” (Quran, 6:160). The reward of fasting on these days is also immense since it is said to be one of the best deeds we can do as Muslims. Consider fasting on these days also as a way to strengthen your connection with Allah and abstain from things you may be tempted to do that are sinful.

Conclusion 

If you’re feeling isolated this Valentine’s Day, just know you are not alone. Spending time with the people you love can be just what you need to spark your joy and start your week off right. If you choose to have a night to yourself, that is a great way to recharge and prepare yourself for the week ahead. Or do something religious to strengthen your faith and connection, especially if it’s being affected by everything going on around you. Try not to let all of the holiday hype get to you, and enjoy your day no matter what you are doing, even if it’s nothing at all.

Are you planning on doing anything on Valentine’s Day? Let us know in the comments below!