By Kimberley Jace

If you want to say “I Love You” and also, “I want you to grow old with me,” chose Valentine’s Day activities that improve health for both genders.

Cry Over a Movie

Crying can release negative emotions and even improve your brain chemistry, according to research. But don’t pick a fight to make your true love cry! Instead, set up a time to cry together over a great love story. Instead of taking a chance on whatever’s in the theaters on the Big Day, it’s safer to choose a romantic DVD. True love themes that will make you cry include Love Story, The Notebook, and any of the remakes of Romeo and Juliet. Watch the movie at home while snuggled in bed with your loved one. For a special treat—and if you live in the warmer parts of the country--pop the DVD onto your laptop, spread a blanket in a private outdoor spot (maybe your own back yard) and cry together under the stars. Bring an extra blanket and lots of tissues.

Laugh Over a Movie

Laughter helps your body release endorphins and may be especially appropriate for lovers who have been together a while. If you’re past the stage of weeping in each other’s arms over the unfairness of fate, follow the above advice with a comedy movie instead. Whether it’s Mel Brooks, Woody Allen, or a classic like Caddy Shack, laughing with your sweetie is an excellent Valentine’s Day activity.

Listen to Romantic Music

Slow, romantic music (think Ravel’s Bolero, unless you’re more a Barry White type of lover) can be relaxing and can release endorphins that help regulate your mood and your body. Even classical music is healthy, but soft jazz is more likely to lead to romance. And don’t just use your iPhone for this one; dust off the stereo, pop in a CD, and let music be a relaxing and healthy backdrop for your night of romance.

Dance to the Music

Dancing is an excellent aerobic exercise that can pump up your circulation and leave you glowing with renewed vitality. Ditch the Bolero when it’s time to dance, and put on the Motown hits, or whatever music moves you and your loved one. If you can’t agree on a musical genre, try African drum music or Latin salsa beats, and just let loose. Fast dancing encourages deep breathing that helps eliminate toxins from your body. Slow dancing encourages deep kissing that might make you two feel even closer.

Take a Stroll Together

Even if you walk every day for exercise, it’s probably been a while since the two of you held hands and just took a stroll through the evening air. Walk your dog or just amble down the street, letting the night breezes refresh you. Walking is an all-round healthy activity and can become a habit that will extend your life. Just be sure to walk in a safe area, and if it’s dark out, bring a flashlight.

Share a Dessert

Too much sugar, like the kind in that box of bon-bons, may actually spoil the mood for love. But chocolate is a bona fide love food, and it’s healthy for your heart as well—so splurge on February 14th with just a few high-quality chocolates, or share a slice of rich chocolate cheesecake at the café of your choice.

Celebrate your love and life together with activities that will ensure many happy Valentine’s Days to come!