Galentine’s Day: Forget the Lame Date, Let’s Celebrate the Queens We Are! 💕

Valentine’s Day doesn’t have to be a cringe-fest of teddy bears, limp roses, and dates you secretly want to bail on. This year, we’re flipping the script and making it all about YOU. Whether you’re flying solo or hanging out with friends, this day is about indulging in what makes you happy—with zero apologies.

Let’s dive into the blueprint for the best Galentine’s Day yet, whether you’re a lone wolf or rolling deep with your crew:

Solo: Because You’re the Main Character

1. Breakfast in Bed—Starring YOU

Why wait for someone else to bring you pancakes when you can whip up a spread fit for royalty? Think waffles, whipped cream, and a mocktail (or mimosa, whichever you prefer). Bonus points for eating in bed while wearing a silk robe and watching whatever your heart desires.

2. Spoil Yourself Rotten

Go big or go home, babe. That fancy perfume you’ve been eyeing? Add to cart. A ridiculously indulgent spa day? Book it. Channel your inner Oprah: You get a treat! You get a treat! YOU get a treat!

3. Recreate Your Favorite Rom-Com Moments

Who says you need a partner to live out your “main character energy” dreams? Cue up The Holiday, Legally Blonde, or Clueless and steal their best moments. Dance around in your living room, deliver a dramatic speech to your dog, or just vibe with a face mask on.

4. Romantic Dinner for One, Please

Cook your favorite meal, order that sushi platter meant for two, or treat yourself to that new vibey restaurant. Light candles, pour wine, and toast to your fabulous self. Who needs awkward date small talk when you’ve got Netflix?

5. Journal, Dream, and Manifest

Use this day to reconnect with yourself. Write a love letter to future you, plan your next adventure, or jot down everything that makes you awesome. Self-love is the ultimate flex.

With Friends: Because Squad Goals Never Go Out of Style

1. Friendship Brunch Bash

Gather your crew and serve up the ultimate brunch spread. Bonus: Assign everyone a dish to make it potluck-style. Champagne and laughter are non-negotiable.

2. DIY Galentine’s Spa Night

Face masks, mani-pedis, and a “build-your-own-cocktail/mocktail” bar. Add in some cheesy rom-coms, and you’ve got a night to remember. Plus, no one’s hogging the bathroom mirror.

3. Epic Game Night or Karaoke Showdown

Break out the board games or set up a karaoke machine and sing your hearts out to every Taylor Swift breakup anthem. The louder and sillier, the better.

4. Friendship Gift Exchange

Think Secret Santa, but with heart-shaped goodies. Everyone brings a gift (think candles, chocolates, or gag gifts), and you draw names to spread the love.

Whether you’re spending Valentine’s Day solo or surrounded by your ride-or-dies, the key is to make it about love—the kind you don’t need someone else to validate. Celebrate yourself, your friendships, and all the amazing things you bring to the table (even if that table is just covered in snacks).

Because at the end of the day, you’re the real baddie.

Self-Defense 101: Because You’re the Main Character and Nobody’s Taking You Out 🦹🏻

Let’s get one thing straight: you are the boss of your own story. And like any badass main character, you need to be ready for plot twists. Enter self-defense—the ultimate life skill that says, “Not today.”

Sure, we hope you’ll never need to channel your inner Hulk, but life isn’t always polite. So, let’s talk about how to protect yourself like the boss you are—with a little flair, a lot of confidence, and maybe some sass along the way.

What Self-Defense Is (and Isn’t)

First off, self-defense isn’t about turning into a martial arts master overnight. This isn’t a Bruce Lee movie, and no one’s expecting you to break boards with your forehead.

Self-defense is about:

• Knowing how to stay safe in tricky situations.

• Learning a few simple techniques that can get you out of danger.

• Building the confidence to walk through life like you own the place.

And honestly, it’s not just about kicking someone’s butt—it’s about avoiding the fight altogether when you can. Because the best fight? The one that never happens.

The Golden Rules of Boss-Level Self-Defense

1. Stay Aware:

Your phone is not more important than your surroundings. Seriously, put it down for two seconds. Look up, scan your environment, and trust your gut. If something feels off, it probably is.

2. Use Your Voice:

Think of your voice as your first weapon. A loud, firm “Back off!” can be enough to deter someone. Plus, yelling draws attention, and attackers? They hate attention.

3. Set Boundaries Like a Pro:

Physical and emotional boundaries are your bread and butter. If someone invades your space or makes you uncomfortable, don’t hesitate to shut it down. A sharp “No” or a raised hand says, “I’m not the one, pal.”

4. Learn Basic Moves:

You don’t need to know every move in the book, but a few basics can go a long way:

• The Palm Strike: Aim for the nose. It’s simple, effective, and will definitely ruin someone’s day.

• The Knee to the Groin: Classic for a reason. Enough said.

• Escape from a Wrist Grab: Twist your wrist toward the attacker’s thumb and pull away. Easy-peasy.

5. Use Everyday Tools:

Your bag, keys, or even a travel mug can double as weapons if needed. Bonus points if your travel mug is filled with hot coffee—because that’s a surprise nobody wants.

Why Self-Defense Is More Than Just Physical

Here’s the tea: self-defense isn’t just about fighting—it’s about empowerment. It’s about walking into a room with your head high, your shoulders back, and the confidence that says, “Try me, I dare you.”

Self-defense training helps you:

• Build Confidence: When you know you can handle yourself, you naturally radiate power.

• Stay Calm Under Pressure: Practice helps you think clearly in tense situations.

• Claim Your Space: You have every right to feel safe, wherever you are.

How to Get Started

Want to level up your self-defense game? Here’s how:

1. Take a Class: Find a self-defense workshop or martial arts class near you. (Bonus: it’s a killer workout.)

2. Practice Regularly: Like any skill, self-defense gets better with practice. Grab a friend and role-play scenarios—you’ll both feel more prepared.

3. Keep It Simple: Focus on mastering a few key moves. No need to overwhelm yourself with fancy techniques.

Final Thoughts: Stay Ready, Stay Bossy

Self-defense isn’t about fear—it’s about power. It’s about owning your space, trusting your instincts, and knowing that you can handle whatever life throws your way.

So, go ahead. Channel your inner action hero…perhaps one of the Powerpuff Girls. Practice those palm strikes, and walk through life like the unstoppable force you are. Because you’re the main character, and in your story, you always come out on top.

Sidenote…every state has their own laws on what personal weapon is considered legal to carry. Please research what is possible for you to carry.

What is legal in every state? Birdie. It is a keychain used for a first line of defense to deter an attacker. It is a piercing loud sound when top is pulled to activate. We must protect ourself (1 in 3 women are assaulted within their lifetime). Bonus…it is TSA approved.

Chia Seeds: Tiny Titans of Nutrition 🌱

Let’s talk about chia seeds, the overachievers of the pantry world. These tiny black and white specks might look like bird food, but don’t be fooled—they’re here to supercharge your health, and maybe even your breakfast game.

Why Chia Seeds Deserve Your Respect

First of all, chia seeds are like the MacGyver of superfoods. Need more fiber in your diet? Chia’s got your back. Want to impress your friends with your omega-3 knowledge? Chia’s practically swimming in it (metaphorically, of course). Looking to bulk up a smoothie or turn almond milk into pudding? Chia seeds are ready to transform into gooey magic at the drop of a hat.

These seeds were even a staple food for Aztec warriors. If they’re good enough for warriors, they’re good enough for your yogurt parfait.

The Nutrition Rundown

Chia seeds are a powerhouse packed with:

Fiber: Keeps your digestion happy and your snack cravings at bay. (Goodbye, croissant detour!)

1. Omega-3 Fatty Acids: These little gus are heart-healthy brain boosters. Our diet tends to lack the way better of the two omegas.

2. Protein: A perfect plant-based to keep you feeling full.

3. Micronutrients Galore: calcium, magnesium, and antioxidants— basically, they”ve got more bling than granny’s jewelry collection.

Ways to Love Your Chia Seeds

1. Chia Pudding: mix them with your favorite milk (coconut milk has me drooling while typing), a touch of sweetener (maple syrup, stevia) and let them soak overnight. Wake up to creamy, dessert-for-breakfast (topped with your favorite fruit)!

2. Smoothie Booster: Throw a spooful into your blender for a nutrient boost.

3. Egg Substitute: Mix 1 tablespoon of chia seeds with 2.5 tablespoons of water, and voila— you’ve got a vegan egg for baking.

4. Sprinkle on Everything: oatmeal, salads, yogurt—chia doesn’t discriminate.

The Verdict

Chia seeds are the MVP of the kitchen— small but mighty, versatile and packed with health benefits. Whether you’re looking to boost your energy, improve your digestion, or just to feel smug about your breakfast choices, chia seeds got your back, Not your teeth though, make sure you check that out after a chia seed filled smoothie.

So, next time you’re shopping at Trader Joe’s and you see that little yellow bag waving at you saying “pick me! pick me!”, I suggest you give these tiny baddies a chance.

Here’s my chia seed pudding recipe! This is for a single serving. To meal prep, I set out 4 of my snack size containers to make enough of this recipe for 4 days. Great for a pre-workout, a long run or just a mid-afternoon pick-me-up (instead of that 2nd or 3rd cup of coffee)!

• 1/4 can of coconut milk (I use whole fat but there are reduced fat options)

• 2 tbsp chia seeds

• 1 tbsp maple syrup or honey

• 1/2 cup strawberries (or any fruit you would like)

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• sprinkle of stevia (for a little extra sweetness if you would like!)

Set in fridge overnight and wake up to a chef’s kiss snack.

Link to the perfect snack size tupperware for chia seed pudding. Loveeeee these.