This year Americans will spend nearly $26 billion on their Valentines — about $2 billion more than they did in 2022. Not surprisingly, candy is the most popular gift, followed by cards, flowers, an evening out, and jewelry.
The takeaway is clear: We love love. So why limit the romance to one day a year? Instead, consider upping the romance ante year-round by bringing sexy back to the bedroom.
“An aesthetically pleasing boudoir can play a large role in how a couple can relate to each other especially when our environment speaks to our senses,” New York couple’s therapist Christina Eller told Well + Good. Our brains instinctively absorb information via our senses — hearing, sight, smell, taste, and most importantly here, touch — which in turn let us know how to feel.
Read on for ways to turn your sleep space into a dreamy, mood-enhancing retreat.
Ambient Lighting
Dimmers put you in control. Dial them down to create an intimate, cozy ambience — often as easy as using an app on your phone. An added bonus: You’ll extend the life of your light bulbs.
When it comes to color, think sunrises and sunsets; oranges, ambers, even reds. And in lieu of one large light, choose a few low-light fixtures to create a softer, calmer effect.
Mood-Setting Music
There’s nothing quite like expressing your love through music and obviously Spotify knows that. Introducing the “Ultimate Love Experience” — a personalized playlist perfectly curated for you and your significant other.
Simply answer a few questions and the music platform does the rest. One more cool custom feature: You can upload photos to use as cover art.
Luxe Linens
“Having soft, temperature-controlled, and breathable linens will help couples feel more relaxed while in bed,” couple’s therapist Liana Cools told Well + Good. You best bet: Lightweight sheets with a high thread count.
Opt for natural textiles like silk, Egyptian cotton, and bamboo fiber. A crisp duvet will help mimic the look and feel of a five-star hotel suite. And don’t forget texture. A cashmere or faux fur throw, for example, oozes luxury.
Sensual Scents
Ever wonder what fragrances are most arousing? The experts at OnBuy Women’s Perfume rank lavender, sandalwood, rose, vanilla, and bergamot high on the list of aphrodisiacs. One surprise finding: Pumpkin, with its sweet accents that evoke a certain comfort, is the favorite olfactory note for men.
Candles are a tried-and-true favorite. (After all, who doesn’t look better in candlelight?) And gift-givers take note: the Night Souk Circle Pot Pourri Totem is as chic as it is fragrant.
Go Tech-Free
Yes, it’s tough to do. But couple’s therapists agree: No cell phones, no TV, no laptops. A technology-free bedroom not only changes your sleeping habits — it can also improve your relationship with your partner and make you a happier person. Win, win.
