If you thought that having children could put a spanner in the works of your romance, think again. Recent research by the University of San Diego showed that couples with young children actually have more ‘moments of passion’ than those without children, meaning that couples are somehow finding a way to balance their time and energy. Keeping romance alive by celebrating your anniversary is one way to commemorate the importance of your partnership within the larger family unit. If this important day is coming up soon and you’d like to make it extra special for your partner, enlist the help of a trusted babysitter and take note of the following tips.
Setting the Mood Before Your Anniversary Date
To keep fashion alive, you need to set the right mood according to a study published in The Journal of Sex Research. The research, which showed that passion does not necessarily fade long-term among couples, found that couples can keep it alive by seeking out more intimate moments, experimenting in the bedroom, setting the right ambience, and communicating sexually. In the days leading up to celebrating your anniversary, make sure your partner is excited about the celebration by uttering romantic words and giving them a few hints of what they can expect on the big night.
Finding the Right Anniversary Gift
If your spouse loves receiving gifts then keep a journal throughout the year listing items they may have expressed a desire for. They may have window shopped for a beautiful watch, cufflinks, or headphones. If so, secretly buying it for them and gifting the item when you are celebrating your anniversary will show you are in tune to their needs and desires. Remember that for some people, the anniversary gift of quality time beats all others. For these people, ensure that material gifts are balanced by experience-based ones. There are so many ways to give and receive love – including telling your partner how much you appreciate them, doing them a special favor, or even showing the extent of your feelings through the gift of touch.
Doing Something Different
Most people go on a romantic dinner when they are celebrating your anniversary, but if you’re looking to add a bit of spice into the equation, aim to celebrate with a new, adventure-filled activity. A study published in the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology found that “engaging in novel activities with a long-term romantic partner can reignite feelings of passion felt in the early stages of a relationship.” These activities, said the researchers, are ‘self-expanding.’ They “fuel higher desire and are associated with greater relationships satisfaction.” The secret to self-expansion does not necessarily lie in doing ‘odd’ things like jumping out of a plan or taking a hot-air balloon ride. It lies in how you and your partner view the activity your are enjoying. If you think it is magical and mysterious, then it probably is.
Making it a point to start celebrating your anniversary every year is a way to let your partner know the value they bring to your life. While you can certainly do so in the traditional way (by enjoying a night out on the town), you can also boost the passion factor by setting the mood, delighting them with a special gift, and planning an out-of-the-ordinary experience. Whatever you do, make sure your anniversary this year is one you will look back to with joy, emotion, and plenty of passion.
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