Baby, You Can Light My Fire

Many people in a relationship want to know if they need to move on to a new partner if passion goes out the back door. They also ask if it is possible to maintain passion or even grow it in a committed relationship. The good news is that research shows you can maintain and develop more passion in a committed relationship by introducing some innovative activities with your partner both in and out of the bedroom!

Neuroscientists have determined that the same brain chemicals that make passion feel so good when we first meet someone new are also released when we engage in novel activities with a long-term partner. This doesn’t mean you have to run out and buy a copy of the Kama Sutra and start on page one (though that’s not necessarily a bad idea!). You can get the same rush by going out and doing something new and unique with your partner. Think about it… what have you always wanted to try? Skiing? Travel to an exotic destination? Cooking classes? Imagine the rush of pleasure-promoting endorphins that will result if you learn to run together (not to mention the increased fitness and stamina that you would achieve!).

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Be creative! Have fun! Be passionate about your life and your partner… your relationship will thank you!

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Take a minute to comment below and let us know of some of the new and exciting things you think people could try that would help maintain or build the passion in their relationship other than sex.

Contributed by Dr. Stacy MacKinnon, Research Psychologist