Life

7 Ways To Be More Intimate Out Of The Bedroom

by Elena Hart

Feeling close to your partner doesn't have to go away when you leave the bedroom. There are many out-of-bedroom tips for more intimacy with your partner that don't involve a lot of planning, a ton of stress, or both of you to empty your wallets. If you and your partner settled for the idea that the honeymoon phase has ended: Think again.

It could be as simple as choosing an activity that can put you both in a good mood and help you laugh together — like starting a new sitcom on Netflix (that you can conveniently start mid-cuddle with a streaming stick). It could also mean planning a spontaneous getaway for just the two of you and swapping your distracting phones for an instant print camera.

Whatever the activity you feel you need to relight the spark between you and your S.O., remember that every good relationship takes a little extra effort sometimes. But if you're both down to reconnect and work on your emotional bond, you'll see the amazing benefits in every aspect of your relationship. (Yep, you guessed it: These include the physical ones, too.)

Read on, and let these tips guide you to meeting your emotionally intimate Cory and Topanga #relationshipgoals.

Take A Spontaneous Trip & Record It (Without Social Media)

Polaroid Snap Instant Digital Camera, $100, Amazon

Plan a spur-of-the-moment trip to a fun city you've never been to, like Nashville or New Orleans. Vow to leave behind social media, and bring this instant color photo printing camera with you to capture all your travel moments. Pictures print in under one minute, and the camera's sleek design means it fits anywhere you go on your weekend. Shutting your phones off will force you to pay more attention to each other and will remind you why you're really into your partner — making you feel more intimate when it comes time to head to the bedroom.

Make A Book Club With Your S.O. For In-Depth Convos

Modern Romance by Aziz Ansari, $17, Amazon

Setting a weekly date for wine and appetizers over this best-selling book is a great way to spend time. For your first pick, this book takes an insightful, relatable, and hilarious look at modern relationships. You'll feel like a much stronger couple after discussing Ansari's findings — hearing each other out on where you both stand. Plus, nothing is sexier than a partner with an intellectual side. (Oh, and who doesn't love Aziz Ansari?) All of your love and sex conversations will make you feel more intimate in the sheets.

Take Turns Playing Masseuse Using A Rejuvenating Oil

Nooky Massage Oil 16oz, $23, Amazon

De-stress together by giving each other a rub down with this hydrating, Geranium Leaf infused sensual massage oil. It contains sweet almond oil and gives off a scent that will make you forgot that you're not at a luxury day spa. You'll both appreciate the other person for putting in a little elbow grease to help the other relax — and you'll feel like you hit the refresh button on your relationship.

And Set The Mood With The Essential Oils Soy Massage Candle

Vanilla Soy Wax Aromatherapy Massage Candle, $19, Amazon

Vanilla is a natural scent that is said to instantly put people in the mood to get busy, while even acting as an anti-depressant. Burn this aromatherapy candle that's made with essential oils — including shea butter, jojoba oil, Vitamins A and E, and Omega 3 during your massage to feel happier and more bonded with your mate. Bonus: This candle's melting point allows it to safely be poured over you and your partner.

Increase Endorphins Comfortably On Flexible Fit Running Shoes

Nike Free Flyknit 4.0 Running Shoes (Sizes 3-15) , $70-$266, Amazon

Surprise your partner with a new pair of on-trend, flexible fit running shoes with lightweight support that will convince your partner it was a good idea to sign both of you up for a gym membership. Getting sweaty together is a natural aphrodisiac, and it will translate very well to the bedroom. (If the shoes didn't convince your partner, I have a feeling that little fun fact might do the trick).

Plan A Camping Trip With The Made-For-Two Tent

Himalaya Couple Tent Aluminum 2 Person s, $185, Amazon

Planning a hike together is a fun and expense-free way for both of you to gain the benefits of breaking a sweat while you adventure somewhere new and beautiful together. You'll have a lot of time to bond over conversation as you're making the way up the mountain — and this durable, easy-to-carry waterproof tent designed for two will give you both a sound night of cozy "sleep" together. You may even feel inspired to wander off the beaten path and get a little frisky in the great outdoors.

Then, Get Inspired With Some Naughty Nature Ideas From Pros

Sex in a Tent: A Wild Couple's Guide to Getting Naughty in Nature , $11, Amazon

After your great day of fun and games with mother nature, you'll be in the mood to get physical with your S.O. — adventure style. This guide to love and sex on a camping trip gives "getting down and dirty" a whole new meaning. It includes playful positions to try in a tent and even suggests how to still feel hot when you've been hiking all day or rolling around in the mud. You'll be celebrating Earth Day a little extra this year.

Start A New Sitcom Together Using A Streaming Stick

Roku Streaming Stick , $45, Amazon

Sometimes all you need to feel bonded is to spend time kicking back and laughing together. Take a weekend off from the bars and stay in with a hilarious new sitcom on Netflix using a smartphone-controlled streaming device that fits right into your HDMI. After watching the entire series together, hours of cuddling and bonding won't hurt either. Take a break between episodes and fool around to make for an extra steamy weekend in. You'll be texting each other funny quotes and flirty memories all week long.

Indulge In Some Extended Cuddle Time With A Super Soft Throw

Chanasya Sherpa Dark Gray Black Throw Blanket , $25, Amazon

Paula Hall, an online dating service relationship expert, told the Daily Mail that "Cuddling provides not just sensual pleasure, but also a feeling of comfort, security and companionship." Spend more time in a spooning position with the super soft and lush faux fur throw that'll keep you and your partner warm and cozy. You'll naturally release the cuddle hormone, Oxytocin (yes, it's a thing!), and the emotional bond you feel will make your nighttime fun feel way more intimate. Bonus: This cloud-like blanket is machine washable.

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Images: Pexels (1); Amazon (9)