It’s happening. The onslaught of pink and red in store displays... the candy hearts and chocolate sales... the pressure. Valentine’s Day is coming. Whether you love it or want to run screaming, we’ve got you.

This week, we’re honoring love in its many forms. We’ll offer you things to do, places to go, and advice on how to care for friends, lovers… and yourself.

Today, we’re talking about how taking time for your own pleasure can be an act of love.

We talk to Sami Schalk, UW Madison professor and columnist for Tone Madison, about why celebrating joy in daily life is essential for our well-being and how finding your ‘enthusiastic yes’ can help you set better boundaries in love and life. 

📚 Sami’s ideas for sharing love and book recommendations: Pleasure Activism, Rest is Resistance, The Body is Not an Apology and Set Boundaries, Find Peace: A Guide to Reclaiming Yourself

📸 Here Sami’s recommendation for a Madison photographer skilled at taking intimate photos

🦉 And check out date night ideas from the library (and not just books!) 

Wanna talk to us about an episode? Leave us a voicemail at 608-318-3367 or email [email protected]. We’re also on Twitter and Instagram! Want more Madison news delivered right to your inbox? Sign up for the Madison Minutes morning newsletter.