Work up a sweat
Any kind of exercise is a great mood booster. So whether you go for a run around the park, finally get round to that exercise DVD or get frisky between the sheets – the exercise will release endorphins helping to stave off depressing and that down-in-the-dumps feeling. Sex in particular has the added benefit of helping you fight off infections by enhancing your immunity.
Cuddle more
Giving and receiving affection releases feel good endorphins. These hormones not only have the effect of a mood but also an energy boost. Jo comments, ‘Studies have shown that fulfilling sex, even simple cuddling, significantly reduces stress and creates a positive mood in the hours and even days that follow’. ‘Sexual contact with your partner increases intimacy, and induces feel-good endorphins and the ‘love hormone’ oxytocin.’
Communicate
‘One of the most significant reasons for any relationship breaking down, is often due to a lack of communication when one partner feels something isn’t quite right but finds themselves unable to talk about it. This is especially true for your sex life. If you feel that your sex life has become a bit routine or predictable or your partner could be doing things a different way and you don’t let him know in some way, resentment on both sides often builds up pretty quickly’.
Experiment
‘In winter, we all tend to feel less like going out and socialising. Perhaps it’s our hibernation instinct, but it’s an ideal time to reconnect sexually with your partner – it’s what cosy winter nights were meant for! A couples toy like We-Vibe or a sexy board game, or even a bit of suggestive role play could be the way to introduce a little experimentation into the bedroom’.
Book a getaway
‘There are a number of joint 'resolutions' you can make to ensure that you make the most of your relationship, whether it's agreeing to spend more time alone as a couple or taking regular breaks together’.
No excuses!
The classic ‘I have a headache’ might be true, especially in January when we are feeling down and often playing catch up with workloads and bills. This is a pressurised time but getting close can help. Not only does sex reduce stress levels it also benefits your blood pressure. Jo explains ‘Regular sex lowers our systolic blood pressure. Orgasms not only provide an immediate stress-buster, they have also been shown to relieve the kind of headaches anxiety can bring.’
Try a sex enhancer
Having a vibrator like the We-Vibe, which is especially designed for couples can also help introduce some fun into the bedroom without your partner feeling intimidated or concerned. Rather than buying one of the giant vibrators on the market, which may threaten his manhood, buy a little Tango, bullet vibrator and ask him to use it on you’.