A component of romantic love is our intimacy with our partner. I hear often how people, men and women, are struggling with low sex drive. Low sex drive, or libido, is common, especially for people dealing with chronic health issues. Let’s break libido and desire down a bit further.

The desire for intimacy is made up of 3 things: libido (of the physical/hormonal aspect), intimacy (mind, body, heart, and spirit connection with yourself and your partner), and lastly, our thoughts and beliefs around sex. It’s important for you to explore where the root of the low desire stems from.

Remember: There is no normal level for libido, it’s so individual and is whatever is normal for you. Low libido is when there is a decrease from your past sex drive.

Having a healthy sex life is a foundation of health. If you are experiencing symptoms of low libido, please bring it up to your doctor.

Tips this Valentine’s Day:

• Intimacy can come from holding hands, cuddling, talking. Practice these daily without any expectations of where it will lead.
• Address stress. High, unmanaged stress will decrease your desire for intimacy.
• Include aphrodisiacs in your routine such as cacao, figs, almonds, oysters, chili peppers and see what happens!
• Balance hormones. Having optimal levels of reproductive hormones will give a boost to your libido.
• Download the app Card Decks, by the Gottman Institute and go through it with your partner.