Every February 14, people around the world celebrate Valentine's Day, a holiday dedicated to expressing love and affection between intimate partners and friends. The day is named after Saint Valentine, a Christian martyr linked to romantic love, whose history has become intertwined with the day.

Saint Valentine, a priest in 3rd century Rome, is believed to have performed secret weddings for couples defying the emperor's decree prohibiting marriage. His actions contributed to the day being associated with love. The commercialized holiday includes various traditions, such as gift-giving and romantic dinners.

Valentine's Day has become a multi-billion dollar industry, with millions spent annually on gifts, cards, and dining out. The holiday has evolved to include not just romantic couples but also friendships and familial love, leading to broader interpretations of love.

The celebration of love has inspired countless traditions, from sending anonymous love letters to elaborate proposals. Many feel that Valentine's Day, despite its commercial aspects, provides an opportunity to express appreciation for loved ones.

Interestingly, the day was once considered a feast day, and many medieval Christians would perform romantic acts as a form of devotion. Valentine's Day is one of the most celebrated holidays worldwide, reaching beyond cultural and geographic boundaries.

In some countries, Valentine's Day is marked with unique traditions; for instance, in Japan, women give chocolates to men, and the men reciprocate a month later on White Day. The day is not only for lovers but also emphasizes the importance of friendship.

Valentine's Day has sparked debates on individual expression and societal pressures, as not everyone feels comfortable participating in grand gestures. Some people choose to embrace it as a chance to practice self-love or support friendships, making it an inclusive day rather than a solitary romantic one.

Research shows significant increases in heart-related emergencies on Valentine's Day, leading to the phenomenon colloquially known as 'Broken Heart Syndrome.' Despite this, the emotional language and connection of love remain central to the celebration.

How do you typically celebrate Valentine's Day, and what does it mean to you?