Now that the glitter and petals of the Month of Love have settled for another year, it’s time to extend the aspect of February that kind of goes unnoticed. Love is a verb; it’s something that we do…something that involves action and consciousness. It’s time to pause and focus and act with loving kindness towards our human family. To celebrate the incredible bonds between women, lift each other up, celebrate sisterhood, and embrace the power of female friendships.
While created in jest, anti-Valentine’s Day celebrations such as Galentine’s Day, hold a unique and empowering significance, particularly when considering the importance of women supporting women and standing in solidarity with survivors of domestic, family, and sexual violence. These alternative celebrations take on a serious quality as they offer a meaningful counter-narrative to traditional romance-centric observances.
Put the spotlight on strength, resilience, and camaraderie among women. For survivors of domestic, family, and sexual violence, it becomes a poignant reminder that love and support extend far beyond romantic relationships. It underscores the significance of platonic bonds and the crucial role that friendships play in the healing journey.
In a society too often fixated on romantic partnerships, these alternative celebrations offer a space for women to redefine love, prioritise self-love, and emphasise the importance of healthy, supportive relationships. Moreover, these proxies contribute to broader conversations about self-love and mental health. They encourage self-compassion and focus attention on the importance of seeking joy and fulfillment outside of societal expectations.
For survivors, Galentine’s Day type observances become a symbol of unity and empowerment. Through their online post-crisis peer-based support group, Adamas Nexus fosters an environment where survivors can connect with others who understand the complexities of their experiences, providing a sense of belonging and mutual understanding. It’s a celebration of resilience, friendship, and the shared strength that emerges when women come together to support one another.
So while the Month of Love celebrations have now passed for the year, why not take more opportunities to shower yourself with some self-care; get that facial, buy those flowers, walk in the park, take that day off if you can.
Do what you need for YOU.
Celebrate YOU.
Love YOU.
Love in all its forms – romantic, platonic, and self-love – is deserving of celebration and recognition.
