15 Ways to Say I Love You (Without Spending a Dime)

Since the 15th century, Valentine's Day has been synonymous with love - a time to let loved ones know in a special way how very important they are to us. Then, somewhere in the middle of the 20th century, Valentine's Day took on a decidedly commercial flavor, with advertisers attempting to convince the lovestruck to shower the objects of their affections with cards, flowers, candy, wine, and jewelry.

But love is a precious gift that can't be measured in dollars or pesos or francs, and the most touching and treasured expressions of love are those that money can't buy. Here are 15 ways to say "I love you" to all of the important people in your life . . . without spending a dime.

To Your Valentine

- Make eye contact when you speak. Your life is so busy, and while you've been multi-tasking, it's a good bet that your communication with your significant other has become distracted and hurried. Stop, take a deep breath, and look directly into her eyes when you talk to her. Then watch the sparks fly!

- Give your partner a foot massage. Learn how to do this well and you will be adored forever. Touch is a great way to convey your love and a foot massage is like heaven. If you've never received a foot massage yourself, try trading them with your partner. Ahhhh!

- Look at photos from your early relationship. Talk about the memories they evoke. Tell him - again why and when and how you fell in love with him in the first place.

- Dance in your living room. Put the kids in bed, light the candles and put on some soft music. In each other's arms, close your eyes . . . and just be alone together in the world for a few precious moments.

- Write a love letter. Sometimes words fail us when we try to convey the deepest emotions of our hearts. Take some time and write a letter telling her just how much she means to you.

- Read a favorite romantic poem or passage from literature.

To Your Children

- Listen. This is probably the single most important thing you can do to show your children you love them. Remember that their thoughts and feelings are uniquely theirs and listen to them with your full attention.

- Keep a journal. It will tell your children how much you love them, long after you're gone. What a gift.

- Watch your child's favorite TV show or listen to his favorite music for an hour. Instead of commandeering the TV or stereo for your own entertainment or leaving the child with the electronic babysitters, sit down for an hour and watch or listen with them. Let them know that you want to know what inspires them and gives them joy.

- Play a board game. Just like the old days. Your children will love playing with you and you'll be amazed at the lively discussion that will ensue. You may even learn a few new things about your kids.

- Brag within earshot of others. Kids love praise and yours will be so proud to hear you telling your friends and relatives just how great they are.

- Touch. Touch is a healer and soother and it conveys love like nothing else. Hug your children ever day.

To Humankind

- Walk lightly on the earth. Remember that this planet belongs to all of us; show your love and respect for others by helping it to flourish. Plant a tree, recycle, ride your bike to work...every little thing you do counts in a big way.

- Practice random acts of kindness. Think of a time when a small and simple act of kindness had a significant impact on your life and remember the feeling. Can you imagine what the world would be like if everyone could experience that feeling each day? Do your part by approaching your day with a smile and a greeting for others and look for opportunities to share a kindness along the way.

To Yourself

- Open your heart. In his book Dr. Dean Ornish's Program for Reversing Heart Disease, Dr. Ornish states: "Altruism, compassion, and forgiveness-opening your heart-can be powerful means of healing the isolation that leads to stress, suffering, and illness." Opening your heart to others is the best way to love yourself.