February in Lakeland isn't just for roses from Bloom Shakalaka and chocolates from Publix (although, it’s for that, too). With this month celebrating both Valentine’s Day and American Heart Month, it’s a time for self-love, social connection, prioritizing your well-being, and trying new things.

Here are 10 local ways to show yourself (and your crew) some love this month.

Plan an active date

Start daily sunset strolls to get in the groove for one of this month’s many active events, like the annual 2024 Lakeland Regional Health Hollis Cancer Center Promise Run.

Dr. Mark Mines, Cardiologist at Lakeland Regional Health’s Jack and Tina Harrell Institute for Advanced Cardiovascular Medicine, says heart health is a marathon, not a sprint. “I love to get outside and go for a brisk walk,” he says. “You don’t need to be a professional runner or athlete to get in a great workout.”

Feeling adventurous? Grab your partner and test your reflexes under the twilight at SUN KAVA’S Pickleball After Dark series, each Wednesday at 11 p.m. (Feeling extra bold? Join the group for pre-game karaoke.)

Or get footloose with friends (or solo) and the heart-pounding rhythms of Salsa y Bachata dance class, held select Wednesdays in February (including Valentine’s Day itself).

Try something creative

Laughter can be some of the best medicine for your mental health — and it’s great for breaking the ice with a new date. Catch some live comedy at The Yard on Mass’ Stand Up Friday on Friday, Feb. 16 at 8:30 p.m.

Or flex your creative and social muscles at Open Mic Second Saturday, a free night of performers, poets, spoken word artists, musicians, and more, at Quinteassence on Saturday, Feb. 10, 7-11 p.m.

Make a date with your imagination

Plan some me-time by heading to one of these local bookstores to enjoy a coffee or treat and a deep dive into that book you’ve been wanting to read. Bonus: Reading keeps your mind active to improve mental agility.

Or put on some happy-dance music and get cooking in the kitchen with this Chicken Stir-fry recipe, made with heart-healthy ingredients.

Create a calming bedtime ritual

Enjoy a warm bath, put your phone on “Do Not Disturb,” and start getting better sleep — because sleep quality directly affects your heart health.

“One of the most important things to do is think about your sleep time and be aware of how your environment affects getting good sleep,” says LRH’s Dr. Avinash Khanna. “Multiple studies have shown people who get less than six hours of sleep have more plaque in their arteries, particularly the carotid arteries.”

Continue to check up on your heart

Attend Lakeland Regional Health's EmpowerHer Heart event at Bonnet Springs Park on Saturday, Feb. 10 from 9 to 11 a.m. for free screenings, invigorating fitness classes, and educational talks.

And don't let annual checkups become neglected notes in your calendar. Dr. Alexandra von Lindeman at LRH advocates for building a healthcare roadmap.

“Getting established with a primary care provider helps create a roadmap for any specialized care you may need in the future. We carefully follow your health through annual visits and preventative care, and if needed we can refer you to our incredible network of specialists in our LRH Physician Group.”

For those struggling with weight management, Lakeland Regional Health offers comprehensive bariatric surgery programs. Consult with your doctor to see if this option might be right for your heart.