Here we are – another Valentine’s Day. Some people love the holiday and go all-out with dinner, chocolates and red roses. But others roll their eyes at it, thinking it’s yet another hyped up holiday designed to make us spend money. Not very romantic.
Regardless of how you feel about Valentine’s Day, there’s no denying that intimacy in a relationship comes with many health benefits.
Over time, many couples start to feel like their intimacy is slipping away. Life gets busy—kids, work, bills, and all the daily responsibilities can pile up. By the time the day is over, most people are too exhausted to connect in a meaningful way. Sound familiar? If so, you’re not alone. But here’s the good news: intimacy isn’t just about passion. It’s about connection, and keeping that connection alive is one of the best things you can do for your health and happiness.
Why Intimacy Matters
Did you know that physical affection releases all kinds of happy chemicals? One of the most important is a hormone called oxytocin. It’s often called the “love hormone” because it helps people feel bonded and secure. It also lowers stress, reduces anxiety, and even boosts the immune system. When couples prioritize intimacy—whether through sex, touch, conversation, or shared experiences—it activates the body’s oxytocin and relaxation response, helping to counteract daily stress. In short, intimacy isn’t just nice to have. It’s essential for your well-being. So how do we create and maintain that intimacy?
How to Keep the Spark Alive
Relationships need care and attention to thrive. If you feel like you and your partner are stuck in a routine, it might be time to create a “couple bubble”—a space where your relationship comes first. So, how can you do that? Here are a few ideas to bring you closer together:
Make Time for Date Nights
When was the last time you had a real date night—just the two of you, no distractions? It doesn’t have to be fancy. The goal is to enjoy each other’s company. Maybe you go to a concert and dance like you used to, or take a scenic hike and share a picnic. The key is to do something you both love and make it a regular habit.
Plan a Mini Getaway
A change of scenery can do wonders for a relationship. If you’re in Colorado, why not book a cozy cabin in Estes Park for the weekend? Or treat yourselves to a spa day in Boulder? Even a simple overnight stay at a nice hotel can shake up the routine and bring back a sense of adventure. If finances don’t allow that, plan a staycation and make day-trips to fun inexpensive places around town.
Work on a Project Together
Remember when you used to do things together just for fun? Pick a project you’ll both enjoy—plant a garden, start a scrapbook, or even try a cooking class. When you work toward a shared goal, it strengthens your bond and gives you something to talk about other than the usual to-do list.
Set a ‘No Kid Talk’ Rule
If you have kids, it’s easy to let every conversation revolve around them. But your relationship is just as important. Try setting aside certain times where kid talk is off-limits. Instead, focus on each other—what you’re dreaming about, what’s making you laugh, or what’s on your mind.
Show Affection Every Day
Holding hands, hugging, cuddling on the couch—it all adds up. Physical affection isn’t just about sex and romance; it’s about feeling safe and loved. Small gestures throughout the day can make a huge difference in keeping that connection strong.
Speak Each Other’s Love Language
Everyone gives and receives love differently. Have you ever thought about what makes your partner feel most loved? Some people appreciate words of affirmation—little compliments or love notes. Others feel loved through acts of service, like making coffee in the morning or taking care of a chore they dislike. Maybe your partner lights up when you surprise them with a small gift or when you set aside time just for them. Learning and honoring each other’s love language can keep the relationship thriving.
At the end of the day, intimacy isn’t about grand gestures—it’s about making each other a priority. A little effort goes a long way in keeping love alive. So this Valentine’s Day, instead of just celebrating for one night, why not make a plan to nurture your relationship all year long?
At Radiance Functional Medicine, we are here to help! We offer functional medicine and nutrition counseling. We hope that you will allow us to help you heal your gut, balance your hormones, or find a way of eating that helps you thrive! Schedule an appointment to get started. Whether you are looking for a Nutritionist or Functional Medicine Doctor in Denver or your local area, we see patients in person and virtually. Call our office at 303.333.1668 to schedule your Initial Consultation.
