The Spark

How to keep the flame burning in your intimate relationships

- Courtney Shea

UNTIL THE PANDEMIC HIT, travel was a big part of Briony and Ben’s relationship. Exploring new places is a shared passion for the Toronto couple, who are in their 30s and have been together for nearly six years. They’ve taken road trips across the U.S., explored the wilds of Northern Ontario and spent two weeks trekking across Japan.

Before the world went into lockdown, they were about to book a dream getaway, and were deciding between Egypt and Turkey. “For us, trips have always been a way to break out of our everyday routine and deepen our connection,” says Briony. “We’re having a great time, but we’re also stockpiling happy times to look back on, almost like treasured objects.”

This collection of fond memories served them well when, instead of embarking on their latest adventure, they became one of the many Canadian couples who rode out the pandemic from their couch. “Of course, I’m grateful for the companionship and the fact that we were able to stay safe and work from home,” says Briony. Still, being holed up in their downtown apartment and in each other’s space 24/7 is not exactly the stuff of romance novels. They had to make an extra effort to make sure their relationship didn’t suffer.

While the last year put added strain on many couples, keeping the spark going has long been the holy grail of relationships. There are benefits to waking up beside the same person year in and year out, but such comforts can come at the cost of excitement and intensity. After more than a year of perpetual Groundhog Day, it’s understandable if your partnership needs a little romantic resuscitation. Here are some tips on how to keep the passion alive—even after the pandemic.

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