WebMD Pulse

There is a difference between intimacy and sex, but the two definitely go hand in hand.

It’s Valentine’s Day and the stories on the Web, television, and everywhere else were all about love, romance and sex. But, a common theme I noticed this year seemed to be about couples increasing intimacy in ways that would lead to the bedroom. Some of these were a bit surprising.

One of the exercises that Trista and Ryan Sutter, formerly of “The Bachelorette” TV series, expressed on the “Rachael Ray Show” as helpful to them was hugging each other for 30 seconds or more several times a day. 

They also discussed ways to make each other more relaxed, leading to increased chances of  intimacy. One of the things that Ryan found improved Trista’s mood was to put away his laundry and clear clutter. Who knew that doing laundry could have that effect?

As a woman, I know that many of my female friends have told me that little things distract them from relaxing enough to shut off their brains and enjoy themselves. I am guessing men experience similar triggers.  

Another of Rachael’s guests, relationship expert Michael Fiore, suggested texting your partner during the day with little intimate messages in anticipation of what might happen “later”. The texts didn’t have to be really naughty, just suggestive or flirty.

Going back in time, the “Today Show” wants to know if, in our tech-centered society, we have lost the romance of the simple love letter. Jenna Bush shared some of her own grandparents’ wonderful written expressions to each other.

In what way do you share intimate moments with your partner? What types of non-sexual encounters bring the two of you closer together?