8 Creative Ways to Guarantee a Romance-Filled Summer

Submitted by: Angela Clack, PsyD, LPC

Ahhhh, summer has finally arrived and it’s getting hot in here! Okay, that was a  shameless attempt at Nelly’s rap song, but I think you get the idea! Summer evokes images of fun, relaxation, activity, and adventure. So, why not take this time to supercharge your relationship with your spouse?

I am very aware that during the winter months we are often layered with sweaters and coats and now that the weather is warmer removing those layers can bring some anxiety into our life if we haven’t been consistent in taking care of our health.

Here are 8 creative and romantic ways to create a romance-filled summer with your spouse. Some ideas are adapted from the book “1001 Ways To Be Romantic” by Gregory J.P. Godek.

1. Evoke images of sensuality in the bedroom with aromatherapy. Check out sites for which scents create the kind of atmosphere your desire.
2. Go bold and surprise your spouse with some “dirty dancing” moves. Remember the movie “Dirty Dancing” with Patrick Swayze? Step outside your comfort zone and take Ballroom Dancing or Salsa classes with your spouse. Or better yet, ladies, try a pole dancing exercise class! Not only is it fun, it gives a great workout and you can spice up the romance in the bedroom even if you can’t dance! Your spouse will appreciate the effort and maybe laugh a little. It’s all good.
3. Take a Couples Painting class. I recently did a paint class by myself. My spouse wasn’t sure what it was, so I ventured alone first and had a great time of laughs and attempts at creative expression on canvas. Clearly, I am not an artist; it’s about the process, not the product! Still working on getting my husband there.
4. Create a Love Jar. This is really cute. Using a mason jar, fill it with Love Notes and have your spouse pull one daily, to express your love towards him. Also, add some coupons for activities and “spicy” adventures that he can redeem. Try using the little slips of paper from Hershey Kisses candy that your spouse can use to redeem kisses throughout the day. Bonus: you can eat the chocolate!
5. Decide to fall in love all over again. Just decide! You don’t need to read books that analyze your relationship. You just need to decide.
6. Massage anyone? Couples massages are very romantic and relaxing.
7. A picnic in the park complete with the basket, a checkered tablecloth and your favorite foods and music!
8. Rediscover and nurture the “child” inside of you. It’s the key to your creativity, spontaneity, sense of wonder and joy. My husband and I love Quad racing. I grew up riding 4-wheeler motor bikes and even as an adult it is my preferred outdoor activity!

Finally, Mr. Godek states that time and effort are more appreciated than money spent. Gifts are great, but they can’t make up for lost time. Maintaining a loving, romantic connection with your spouse means lingering over dinner, spending lazy Sunday afternoons together, walking and talking, etc.

Dr. Angela Clack is a Licensed Psychotherapist and Certified International Empowerment Women’s Business and Personal Coach. Her areas of interest are woman’s issues, marital and family bonding, and self-care. She enjoys traveling, writing, speaking, and inspiring and empowering women around the globe. She currently resides in New Jersey with her husband, James.

Fab Wives Guest Blogger