Many couples find during this time that they have less energy to prioritize each other, and this can create a feeling of less connectedness.
However, the darkness of winter does not have to be an obstacle to romance and intimacy, but can actually be an opportunity to move closer to each other and find new ways to strengthen your connection.
It’s okay to hibernate a bit
Winter fatigue and lower energy affects many people, which makes sense in our latitudes. Here, the cycle of the earth can remind us that it is okay to slow down the pace and expectations of productivity and profits – after a summer of long days with more energy.
So I would encourage you to try to embrace the slower days.
Take a nap together, go for a walk in the daylight, or allow yourselves to be quiet together without performance.
Intimacy can be as much about sharing the peace as it is about going on adventures together.
Go all in on hygge
The cold months invite candles, warm blankets and cozy moments. Take advantage of it to create some winter rituals together.
It can be a weekly movie night with duvets on the sofa, where you take turns choosing a good movie, reading aloud to each other with a cup of tea in hand or trying new recipes for delicious summer food together.
Small, planned moments can make a huge difference to the feeling of presence and “utilization” of winter’s encouragement to coziness.
Plan something to look forward to
Winter can feel endless at times, so having something to look forward to can make it easier to get through it.
It may be that you have to plan a day at the Christmas market with mulled wine and apple slices, a home spa day with face masks and foot baths or maybe start dreaming about next year’s holiday.
The joy of anticipation can often be as important as the experience itself.
Spend time under the covers
Winter’s cold temperatures make it extra tempting to stay under the covers, and it can be a wonderful way to connect with your partner.
Allow yourselves some lazy mornings with touch, curiously explore each other’s bodies or lie close and feel the heat from each other.
Intimacy and time under the covers doesn’t always have to be about sex, but can also be time to share kisses, talk about dreams or just laugh together about something silly.
The presence that comes with connecting to each other can provide a sense of security and togetherness in the dark of winter.
The cold and darkness invite us to retreat, and if we see it as an opportunity to spend more time together and be a bit introverted in the relationship, then winter is an obvious time to look deeper into the relationship with each other.
When we give each other attention and presence, even the darkest days can light up.
Marie Dencker is a sex and cohabitation writer at Det Nordjuyske Mediehus. She is a trained sexologist and in training to become a couples therapist. She also has a bachelor’s degree in Public Health Science from the University of Copenhagen. Marie Dencker is 30 years old and lives in Thy.
2024-11-24 19:35:00
#Drop #performance #winter #perfect #relationship
How can the concept of “hygge” be incorporated into a couple’s winter routine to enhance intimacy?
**Interview: Finding Connection in Winter with Relationships Expert Dr. Emily Harper**
**Interviewer:** Good morning, Dr. Harper. Thank you for joining us today to discuss the impact of winter on our relationships and moods.
**Dr. Harper:** Good morning! I’m excited to be here and share some insights on this topic.
**Interviewer:** As winter sets in, many couples report feeling less energetic and less connected. What do you think contributes to this feeling during the colder months?
**Dr. Harper:** Winter naturally brings about a change in energy levels for many people. Lower natural light and colder temperatures can lead to what we often call “winter fatigue.” This lack of energy can make it hard for couples to prioritize each other, leading to a sense of disconnection [[1](https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/how-winter-affects-our-mood-and-behavior/)].
**Interviewer:** That makes sense. But you also mentioned that winter doesn’t have to be a barrier to intimacy. How can couples use this season to strengthen their connection instead?
**Dr. Harper:** Absolutely! Winter can actually be a wonderful opportunity for couples to deepen their bond. For example, embracing a slower pace is critical. Couples might enjoy simple activities like taking a nap together or going for walks in daylight. These quiet moments can foster intimacy just as much as more adventurous outings [[1](https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/how-winter-affects-our-mood-and-behavior/)].
**Interviewer:** Can you elaborate on the concept of “hygge”? How can couples incorporate this idea into their winter routine?
**Dr. Harper:** Definitely! Hygge, which is a Danish term for a cozy and comfortable atmosphere, is perfect for winter. Couples can create rituals that encourage coziness—like having weekly movie nights with blankets, reading together with warm drinks, or even cooking together. These small, deliberate moments can significantly enhance feelings of togetherness and presence [[1](https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/how-winter-affects-our-mood-and-behavior/)].
**Interviewer:** That sounds lovely! Are there any proactive steps couples should take to combat the winter blues?
**Dr. Harper:** Yes! One important step is to plan activities that you can look forward to. Whether it’s attending a local Christmas market or planning a mini getaway, having something enjoyable on the horizon can uplift spirits during the more monotonous winter months [[1](https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/how-winter-affects-our-mood-and-behavior/)].
**Interviewer:** Thank you for these insightful strategies, Dr. Harper. As we navigate these winter months, what final thought would you leave with our audience regarding maintaining intimacy?
**Dr. Harper:** Remember that it’s completely normal to feel a little less energetic in winter—embrace it! Use this time to slow down and reconnect in meaningful ways. Intimacy thrives on presence and vulnerability, and the winter season can offer a perfect backdrop for that if we choose to embrace it [[1](https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/how-winter-affects-our-mood-and-behavior/)].
**Interviewer:** Excellent advice. Thank you again for sharing your expertise, Dr. Harper.
**Dr. Harper:** Thank you for having me! Wishing everyone a cozy and connected winter season.