Treat Yourself This Valentine's Day

Ah, February 14. A day of hearts, candy, and roses for many. For others, a day that makes them want to hide in their homes and avoid other people until the 15th. Whether you are looking forward to Valentine’s Day to shower your special person with love or you are planning to boycott any mention of romantic emotions, February 14th is quickly on its way.

No matter how you feel about the day, we would like to remind you that self-love is the best kind of love, so perhaps let it be an excuse to be truly compassionate to yourself. Here are some ways to take care of you on this, or any day, of the year.

Do Something that Makes You Happy

Let’s take a step back. How often do you really carve out time to do the things that light you up inside? Activities that make you feel passionate can help you show yourself some love this February—and throughout the year! Whether this means going on a scenic hike, taking a hands-on class, cooking up a healthy recipe, or simply spending the afternoon reading at the park, use Valentine’s Day as an excuse to start making the time to do things that make you happy. 

Pamper Yourself with a DIY Spa Night at Home

Who says that treating yourself means having to spend lots of money? Setting up an at-home pampering session can be as relaxing and enjoyable as a day trip to a fancy (and expensive) spa. Start by setting the stage with your favorite candles or essential oil scent in a diffuser. Use a hot bath or shower to relax your muscles and pamper your skin with a face mask. Keep the lights low and put on your favorite music or movie to set the scene for the ultimate night of relaxation.

Disconnect to Reconnect

While many of us are aware of the effects that social media can have on our mental health, few of us actually take the time to disconnect & reset ourselves. The constant bombardment of less-than-realistic images of success, fitness, relationships, and happiness can take their toll, distorting our perception of our bodies and personal stories. Regain connection with yourself by taking some time to mindfully disconnect from social media and its negative impacts. However you need to step back from these platforms, give yourself enough of a break to recharge your inner dialogue and remember how to love yourself. 

Sweeten Up Your Night

Sometimes you just need that sweet to boost your mood. We’re only human, right? Luckily, there are plenty of ways to make satisfying desserts for your sweet tooth without loading your body with some of the unhealthy ingredients that are normally associated with Valentine’s candy.

Make your evening extra special with Thistle’s Flourless Chocolate Cherry Moringa Bars. These mouth-watering treats are made with protein-packed almond meal and sunflower butter studded with crunchy toasted almonds and sweet-tart dark cherries. Are you drooling yet? We are! You can make this decadent, delicious, plant-based treat from the comfort of your own kitchen and with ingredients that are easy to find at most health food stores. 

Keep reading to check out our recipe!

Flourless Chocolate Cherry Moringa Bars Recipe

Makes 6 bars 

Ingredients

For the bar:

• ¾ cup rolled oats
• ½ cup almond meal 
• 3 tbsp cacao powder
• 3 tbsp monk fruit powder 
• 2 tsp moringa powder 
• ⅛ tsp pink Himalayan salt
• ¼ cup sunflower butter
• ¼ tsp vanilla extract 
• ½ cup applesauce
• ⅓ cup coconut milk
• 2 tbsp dried cherries
• 2 tbsp sliced almonds, toasted 
  

For the chocolate glaze

• 2 tbsp coconut oil
• ¼ cup unsweetened chocolate chips
• 2 tsp maple syrup 

Process

In a large food processor or high powered blender, pulse together the oats, almond meal, monk fruit powder, cacao powder, salt, and moringa powder until well combined. Dump the mixture into a large bowl. 

Add the sunflower butter, vanilla extract, applesauce, and coconut milk to the food processor and blend into a smooth paste. Add the dry ingredients back in and pulse until the whole mixture comes together into a thick, brownie batter-like consistency. Add in the toasted almonds and dried cherries, and mix to combine. 

Line an 8x8 baking dish or sheet with parchment paper, and fill with the mixture. Smooth with a spatula and place in the freezer to chill for at least 1 hour, but feel free to leave it in the freezer overnight (the longer you let it set, the easier it will be to cut later).

With a double boiler, melt coconut oil and maple syrup. Pour over chocolate chips and stir until fully combined. Spread evenly over chilled mixture (as quickly as possible as the chocolate will start to set quickly!) and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or until the glaze hardens. Carefully remove from the mold and portion into 6 bars.

Enjoy and store leftovers in your refrigerator for up to 3 weeks.