Healthy gift ideas for Valentine’s

By Mitch Felipe
Philippine Daily Inquirer


NOWADAYS, people are becoming more conscious of their health and weight. So this is the perfect time to show your special someone how to take care of one’s health.

Skip chocolates
Studies show that weight gain starts in a relationship.
This Valentine’s day, give something that would remind the other person of her sexiness like a red lingerie or a swimwear in preparation for your upcoming summer trips. Such gesture will make your partner stay fit so she can wear your gift confidently.

Weight-loss program
If you and your partner want to lose weight together, give him/her a health club membership or enroll in a sensible weight-loss program.
A study in the International Journal of Obesity shows that participating in an intensive behaviorally based weight-loss program has a significant “ripple effect” among spouses. A couple can lose weight together even if only one person enters a weight-loss program because one can influence the other in terms of behavioral changes like regular weigh-ins, awareness in calories and healthier food choices.

Fitness reward
Think of Valentine’s gifts as a reward for a job well done. Effective reinforcements like positive feedback promote lasting behavior changes such as being more consistent in physical activities, applying portion control and choosing healthier foods regularly.
A good example of a fitness reward for your partner is a pair of running shoes or a heart rate monitor for finishing a 10-km run. Another reward you can give your wife/husband is a set of workout clothes (smaller sizes) for eating healthy and losing weight.

Wellness concept
Plan a weekend trip with a healthy theme. Instead of eating high-calorie foods during an overnight stay in a hotel, ask the hotel restaurant to prepare healthy meals during your stay. Walk, jog or swim in the beach or pool. Include a relaxing massage for two to end the occasion.

Cheap but romantic
Create Valentine’s day coupons to inject humor and sweetness in your relationship. But avoid food-related gift coupons. Focus on health, wellness and companionship. The following are some ideas:
“10 x 30-minute exercise session of your choice with me” (This coupon will make your partner feel that you love to exercise with him/her. This can be jogging or a 30-minute workout inside your bedroom.)
“Free 20-minute stretch session after workout” (This coupon will create more intimacy after your exercise sessions.)
“P500 worth of red exercise outfits” (This coupon will encourage your partner to shop for exercise clothes instead of food.)

Healthy dinner
If both of you love to celebrate the occasion at home, cook the healthiest and most delicious recipes your partner will never forget. Avoid deep-fried foods, sweets and too much alcohol.
After dinner, present your gift/s to him/her plus of course a romantic greeting card with an old picture of you when you were still young. Include statements which will remind her of staying well and healthy.
“I admire you for being a great role model to our kids.”
“I enjoy your company, especially when you walk early mornings with me so we can stay healthy and live longer.”
“Thank you for reminding me always to take care of my body and health.”