It doesn’t have to.
I have been in long-term relationships, and the passion has never died. Intrigued, I researched, and it turns out we have some control over how we experience erotic energy.
Is the passion going to be as fiery as it was in the honeymoon phase?
Probably not. Relationships go through phases. That’s just the natural cycle.
However, I found a potent hack for keeping the passion alive — novelty.
Trying new things, whether it’s something simple as a new haircut, style, or lingerie or bigger things such as new activities, a new travel destination, or even bigger events like a commitment ceremony (wedding), a move to a different city/country or a significant (positive) lifestyle change.
What else creates passion?
—Seeing our partner through the eyes of others. Observing someone else react to our partner’s humor, attractiveness, or intellect can make us feel validated, proud, and even lucky.
— When we see our partner in their flow — doing something they are good at, confidence that radiates in these moments draws us closer to them.
— Sharing vulnerable moments. Vulnerability bonds. In a romantic relationship, this bond creates intimacy, -> Intimacy ignites passion.
As you see, there are plenty of ways to keep the spark alive. I want to leave you with Esther Perel’s inspiring quote:
“We can always find the stranger within this person who has become so familiar to us. “