Even science says so. During sex, the brain floods the body with hormones and neurochemicals, especially oxytocin, which is best known as the ‘love hormone’—and with good reason. Oxytocin decreases feelings of stress and dramatically increases feelings of trust, security, bonding, and love, says California-based couples therapist Mary Kay Cocharo, LMFT. Skin to skin touching triggers the release of these hormones, making stripping down with your partner one of the quickest and easiest ways to deepen your bond—even before the main event starts. And there are actually additional steps you can take during intercourse to strengthen your connection with your partner further. Here are seven simple things you can try tonight.
Be vocal
Even if you consider yourself to be reserved in bed, keeping quiet during sex means you’re missing out on an opportunity to build your bond with your hunny. Tell your partner what feels good and what doesn't—and if you’re a little more outgoing, vocalise the pleasure you're experiencing, Cocharo says. “Whether it's through words or moans and groans, you want to show that you're in the present moment with each other.”
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Breathe deeply
Breathing deeply communicates pleasure and doing so in tandem with your partner can help heighten arousal, Cocharo explains. “In tantric sex, we teach people to breathe together to create more connection and more eroticism.”
Unplug
Avoid distractions at all costs. Make sure the television is off, and the ringer on your phone is silent. And certainly don't take a break to check your texts or voicemails. During sex, you and your partner should be solely focused on each other, says Cocharo. If you're not, you're missing out on an opportunity to bond, or worse, you risk offending your partner.
