How to keep the romance alive this Valentine’s Day

Valentine’s Day may be, above all, a commercial event, but that doesn’t mean you can’t use it to show your partner you care. Whether you go in for traditional romance with restaurants and roses, or if you are more likely to be snuggled up watching Netflix, these four suggestions could come in handy.

Learn some new moves

There’s nothing quite like dancing for creating intimacy, so why not try out a new class? There are so many options to cater to your musical tastes, from brooding ballroom dances such as the waltz or the tango to the more sensual Latin American styles such as salsa and samba. Alternatively, you could transport yourself back to the 20s with some lindy-hop, a more bouncy and laid-back affair for couples who want to have a bit of fun. Whatever you choose, it’s sure to bring you closer together, whether you’re perfectly in time or simply catching each other as you trip over your own feet.

Get creative in the kitchen

Never underestimate the power of good food to bring the spark to any relationship. Great grub is the key to many a heart, not only because it tastes great, but because of the love that goes into the meal. Eating in might be less expensive, but that doesn’t mean you can’t push the boat out on effort. You could try cooking up some fancy meals with Michelin-standard presentation and turning your dining room into a restaurant, or if your other half has a sweet tooth, try baking together and whether the result goes to plan or not, you’re guaranteed to enjoy yourselves.

Spice up your sex life

We may be very reserved in the UK (and notoriously prudish), but this is no reason to be ignoring one of the most important parts of any relationship. The weather is dreary but your sex life needn’t be, so try mixing things up a bit: invest in some new lingerie, check out the best vibrators or find out more about what your partner likes.

Surprise your other half

A loving gesture is all the more romantic when it comes at the most unexpected times. A bunch of flowers after work can really brighten someone’s day, as can an indulgent box of chocolates. You needn’t spend much: it’s all about the spontaneity. For a more personal surprise, try exercising your creative muscles and crafting something unique, or show that you listen by taking your partner to do something they’ve always talked about.

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