Five awesome chocolate alternatives for your Valentine

A card, a dozen roses and a box of chocolates: it must be Valentine’s Day. A card, a dozen roses and a box of chocolates: it must be Valentine’s Day.

But this year, why not think outside of the (chocolate) box? Instead of giving candy, show your sweetheart that you love them with one of these fun, healthful activities that you can enjoy together.

1. Cook up a heart-healthy feast

Cooking together is fun, and a homemade feast is definitely better for both your waistline and your wallet. The heart-healthy recipes provided by the Heart and Stroke Foundation website provide lots of options for indulgent but healthful menus. Even better, some foods that are thought to be aphrodisiacs also have health benefits – figs, for example, are chock full of antioxidants, and oysters are a great source of zinc. Good luck making it past the appetizer course!

2. Get a couple’s massage

Massage is known for promoting relaxation and a sense of well-being. If you’d like to take a more hands-on approach, sign up for a couple’s massage course for a gift that keeps on giving long after Valentine’s Day is over.

3. Head outside

Bundle up – February is the perfect time to take advantage of some of Nova Scotia’s amazing winter activities. Whether you prefer skiing, skating or snow-shoeing – or even winter surfing! – there are lots of opportunities to get your beloved’s heart pumping a little faster.

4. Make something

Give the gift of new synaptic connections – learning a new craft is a great brain booster, and working with your hands can be an excellent way to relax. If you’re looking for something a little more romantic than knitting, consider pottery date night at the Nova Scotia Centre for Craft and get your Ghost on.

5. Have a (he)art attack

Visit a local art gallery and feast your eyes on scenes of love through the ages. And don’t forget to indulge in a post-gallery glass of red wine – it’s full of heart-healthy antioxidants.

Of course, some occasions just call for chocolate, and the right kind of chocolate, in moderation, might even have health benefits. For best results, give your boo a small amount of high-quality dark chocolate to savour – you might both reap the rewards.