Hugging, kissing, holding hands – these are some of my favorite things about my relationship with Joe. We always make it a point to show affection toward one another by holding hands when we go for a walk, greeting each other with a kiss and hug before we start the day and again when we return at the end of the day. All of the little connections we make with one another create something called “transferable desire”. Connecting on this type of emotional level will contribute to a lasting desire for one another and a more fulfilling relationship overall.
Today’s exercise called for us to write down all of the ways we connect on a personal level and assess how often we engage in them on a weekly basis. For example, how many times a day do we email or call each other? How often do we go on regular date nights? Do we say “I Love You” often?
Of all of these activities, I have to say, we both agree that they are all a regular routine in our daily lives…everyday! We look forward to sending texts to one another throughout the day to check in. We enjoy cuddling on the couch at night and watching a TV show or two together. We enjoy our date nights at least once a month and sometimes more if we can squeeze them in. We really do love spending time together.
But even though we are already doing these things, there is always room for more ways to build emotional intimacy and trust with one another. Today’s experiment encouraged us to hug one another at least three times a day for at least 30 seconds at a time. Studies have shown that this simple act is proven to increase oxytocin, a “cuddle hormone”. By doing this simple activity each day, it will help us to relax and feel closer to one another despite our hectic daily routines. It also is proven to release stress, lower blood pressure and improve overall mood. And even more importantly, it makes us stop to make time for one another. I must admit by the third hug, I felt myself smiling, thinking back to the first days after we were married and I would cuddle into his chest, still marveling at the idea of being his wife. There is something about his strong arms that is so comforting and protective. The more we hug, the more I am appreciating our love for each other. It makes me want to snuggle all night – focusing completely on one another and our special closeness we share.
If you are interested in participating in your own experiment, the experiment is free and can be found by clicking the K-Y Intimacy Experiment tab on the K-Y Brand Couple’s Page on Facebook. In the mean time, I will be checking in daily to tell you more about my own experiences.
Disclosure: I wrote this posting while participating in a blog campaign on behalf of K-Y® Brand and also received product samples to help facilitate my review. All opinions and experiences in this article are solely my own.
