By Bryony Wardell

What lasts longer than roses and is sweeter than chocolate? The feeling of being healthy. This Valentine’s Day, remember that looking out for your own physical and mental wellness is a gift your loved ones will enjoy most of all.

So, go ahead and treat yourself this weekend and all year long with some healthy gifts for yourself.

Me Time
Finding time to exercise can be hard, and it seems like there is always an excuse not to. But making time for yourself to exercise will help you feel more energized, achieve a healthy weight, reduce stress and support your overall health. Whether you like to walk, bike, dance, swim, play sports or jump on a trampoline – give yourself 30 minutes a day, five days a week to do whatever you like to do to exercise.

Good Food
Fresh vegetables, lean proteins, omega-3’s and antioxidants – you deserve them all. Eating a healthy diet that’s low in fat, cholesterol and salt can help you lose weight and reduce your risk of heart disease and other conditions. Treat yourself with a Valentine’s meal that is full of flavor, but won’t weigh you down. Click here for tips on eating healthy at restaurants, and here are some great recipes from the American Heart Association.

R&R
Life is busy, and not getting enough rest and relaxation can take a toll on your stress, mental capacity, blood pressure and overall health. Try to get 7-8 hours of sleep each night to help your body and mind recover from the day. Here are some tips on relaxation techniques from Mayo Clinic.

Get a Coach To Help You Quit Smoking
Quitting smoking at any age can make a difference you can feel. It can improve your sense of smell and taste, reduce your risk of heart disease and cancer, lower your blood pressure, improve your breathing and so much more. The S.C. Tobacco Quitline is a FREE counseling service that helps South Carolina smokers and tobacco users quit today.
Services include:

• One-on-one coaching (phone or web-based counseling and support)
• Development of a personalized quit plan.
• FREE nicotine patches, gum or lozenges are available to South Carolinians who enroll in Quitline services starting Jan. 1, 2016, while supplies last.

Call 1-800-QUIT-NOW