Relationships

5 ways to boost your romance this summer

5 ways to boost your romance this summer

©iStockphoto.com/Yuri Arcurs Image by: ©iStockphoto.com/Yuri Arcurs Author: Canadian Living

Relationships

5 ways to boost your romance this summer

Warm breezes, flowers in full bloom and late evening sunsets combine to make the perfect setting for a little romance. But after several years of marriage, the romance in your relationship can begin to wane despite the near-perfect seasonal setting. If you feel your relationship could use a boost, there are a few simple ways to heat things up this summer.

We turned to Kimberly Moffit, a Toronto-based couple therapist, for her advice on some of the best ways to spice up your summer and bring a little bit of the passion of the season right into your very own home.

1. Get organized
The first step to having a more romantic summer is to figure out when you're available to spend time together -- just the two of you.

"Take time at the beginning of the summer to fill in your weekends for the entire summer," advises Moffit. This simple task involves sitting down with your partner and a calendar and plotting out your schedule for the season.

First, fill in any commitments you already have, such as weddings or family events. Then list all of the things you'd like to accomplish this summer, including travelling, attending local events or trying new activities. Lay all of these activities out in a clear schedule so you can make the most of your time together while the weather is good. "Planning when you will spend time together provides a reliable way of improving your relationship," explains Moffit.

2. Try something new
Don't get caught in a summer rut. Boost romance by getting a little adventurous. "The summer is a good opportunity to do fun new things with your partner," says Moffit. She suggests planning a camping trip -- either for just the two of you or for the whole family -- or going on a hiking excursion in your area.

If spending time in the great outdoors isn't for you, try exploring an area of your city you haven't ventured into before or simply find some new ways to enjoy the area you're currently living in. Head to the park for a post-dinner stroll, grab an iced latte at a nearby cafe or simply enjoy a glass of wine in the backyard together after work. It's always important to remember that when it comes to romance, it isn't what you do that counts but the fact you're doing it together.

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3. Be spontaneous with your partner
While planning and organization are essential, impromptu summer adventures are also important. "Being spontaneous is really romantic," says Moffit. When the urge strikes, don't be afraid to grab your partner and take off on a last-minute road trip or -- if time is more restricted -- ask your loved one to go for a warm evening walk to grab an ice cream cone and enjoy a hand-in-hand romantic treat while you beat the heat.

Don't shy away from any ideas that pop into your head, even if they don't fit into your normal routine -- the point of spontaneous dates is to add excitement to your relationship and avoid getting stuck in a rut.

4. Get sweaty
To build intimacy, make time to get active together. Despite what you might think, getting sweaty can actually be romantic. "There is an interesting connection between physiology and romance," says Moffit. "Sweating releases pheromones, which can lead to an increase in attraction," she explains.

While an outdoor hike is a great summer option, couples who don't have the luxury of local hiking trails might want to consider taking up running together or picking up memberships to the local fitness club. Not only is breaking a sweat good for you physically, it could help you emotionally and sexually as well. It's a win-win!

5. Keep your dates local
There are ample ways to kick your romance into high gear that don't require going over budget or travelling too far. Make plans to have a romantic dinner at a new restaurant in your city once a week or check your local listings for summertime events that are happening at art galleries, museums or theatres in your area, suggests Moffit. The more you take advantage of summer as a couple, the more fun you'll have and the easier it will be to reconnect. "There are so many things to do in the summer. Even something small, yet thoughtful, can often go a long way," says Moffit.

Let your imagination run wild and don't let all the possibilities overwhelm you. Make this summer your most romantic yet by getting organized, trying new things and giving into spontaneity when the mood strikes.

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5 ways to boost your romance this summer

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