Dr. Jerez Mitchell’s advice hits home for Charleston folks navigating Valentine’s Day—especially with those Lowcountry vibes like Ravenel Bridge walks or beach sunsets she mentions. It’s a refreshing take on ditching the commercial hype for real connection, whether with a partner, family, friends, or even volunteering at a shelter.
Key Takeaways for Low Pressure Celebration
- Focus on time over gifts: Ask your partner what they’d enjoy—planning together counts as bonding. Free ideas: Bowling (great for novelty and stamina-building), bridge strolls, or new activities at off-hours.
- Build daily habits: Prioritize the relationship, give positive reinforcement (like praising sock-folding), communicate patterns openly, ditch phones, and try the 5-minute eye contact exercise to sync emotionally.
- For singles or loners: Volunteer (animal or women’s shelters), hang with friends/family, or journal good/bad days to spot what strengthens bonds.
- Balance togetherness and independence: Time apart recharges you, making reunions stronger.
Ties right into building stamina through bowling or runs, like she suggests trying new things. Perfect for Mount Pleasant or North Charleston crews wanting meaningful memories without the stress.
What part of her tips resonates most with you, or are you planning any Charleston-specific Valentine’s activities?
