It isn't possible to love and part. You will wish that it was. You can transmute love, ignore it, muddle it, but you can never pull it out of you. I know by experience that the poets are right: love is eternal.
― E.M. Forster, A Room with a View
One look was all it took
My heart leapt into your hands
Fluttering to the call of your name,
Take it, it's yours.
I never knew
Joy so bittersweet
Passion that burned as the sun,
With you, I am irrevocably lost, Finally.
With Heartfelt Intention
Romance is a complex and multifaceted emotional connection between two people, woven with affection, intimacy, and passion. It transcends mere friendship, interlaced with a deep sense of attraction and desire, and often manifested through gestures of love and devotion. Romance embraces both emotional and physical elements — igniting a profound understanding and empathy between partners.
In romantic relationships, partners strive to make each other feel special, appreciated, and cherished. They lovingly engage in meaningful conversations, share personal experiences, and create lasting memories together. Acts of kindness, thoughtfulness, and support are common expressions of romance, and enhance the emotional bond between the individuals.
Passion plays a crucial role in romance by sparking intense feelings of desire and arousal. Physical touch, gestures of affection, and shared experiences add vitality to the passionate aspect of the relationship. However, romance is not solely based on magnetic physical attraction — it also involves a deep emotional connection that nurtures intimacy and vulnerability.
Romantic relationships can take various forms, from the early stages of giddy infatuation to long-lasting, loving partnerships founded on enduring trust and commitment. The presence of romance enriches human life with profound joy, vibrant excitement, and a comforting sense of belonging that all encourage emotional well-being and fulfillment for those who experience it.
Celebrating Loving Actions
Romance Awareness Month held in August, is a heartwarming celebration dedicated to enlivening and cherishing the romantic aspects of human relationships. During this month, people are encouraged to explore, express, and deepen their romantic connections with partners, spouses, and significant others.
The observance of Romance Awareness Month serves as a reminder to prioritize affection, intimacy, and passion in our lives. It prompts couples to rekindle the flames of love, to engage in heartfelt conversations, and to create memorable experiences together. Through various activities such as intimate dinners, surprise gestures, handwritten love notes, or weekend getaways, couples can reignite the spark and strengthen their emotional bonds.
This month also emphasizes the importance of open communication and active listening in relationships. It encourages partners to express their desires, dreams, and concerns openly, fostering understanding and empathy which help strengthen their bond. Furthermore, this celebration extends beyond couples by promoting self-love and self-care. It encourages us to treat ourselves with kindness and indulge in activities that bring personal joy and fulfillment.
In our world often characterized by fast-paced routines and digital distractions, Romance Awareness Month serves as a meaningful opportunity to pause, reflect, and invest time and effort into nurturing the romantic connections that enrich our lives. Whether we are celebrating long-lasting partnerships, kindling new flames, or cultivating self-love, this observance invites us to embrace the beauty and depth of human affection, reminding us of the power of love to bring joy, happiness, and emotional well-being into our lives.
Reaping The Rewards
Romance not only warms the heart but also provides a range of health benefits that contribute to overall well-being. The emotional and physiological responses associated with romantic relationships have a positive impact on various aspects of health —
Reduced Stress – Engaging in romantic activities and spending time with a loved one triggers the release of oxytocin, often referred to as the love hormone. Oxytocin helps reduce stress levels, lowers blood pressure, and promotes relaxation.
Improved Mental Health – Romance fosters emotional intimacy and a sense of connection, leading to reduced feelings of loneliness, anxiety, and depression. Sharing experiences, emotions, and challenges with a partner can provide emotional support and a sense of belonging.
Enhanced Immune System – The positive emotions associated with romance stimulate the immune system, potentially leading to improved immune function and better defense against illnesses.
Pain Relief – The release of oxytocin and endorphins during romantic activities can provide natural pain relief, helping alleviate minor discomfort and improving overall pain tolerance.
Heart Health – Healthy romantic relationships are linked to a lower risk of heart disease. The emotional and social support from a partner can lead to healthier lifestyle choices and reduced stress, which are beneficial for cardiovascular health.
Longevity – Studies suggest that individuals in fulfilling romantic relationships tend to live longer. The emotional support, companionship, and positive influence of a loving partner can contribute to a longer and healthier life.
Better Sleep – Feeling secure and loved in a romantic relationship can promote better sleep quality and help alleviate insomnia-related issues.
Mood Enhancement: Engaging in romantic gestures and spending time with a partner can trigger the release of dopamine, a neurotransmitter associated with pleasure and reward. This can lead to an improved mood and increased feelings of happiness.
Boosted Self-Esteem – Romantic partners often provide positive feedback and affirmation, which can contribute to enhanced self-esteem and self-worth.
Positive Lifestyle Choices – Couples often engage in activities together, such as exercising or cooking healthy meals. This shared commitment to well-being can encourage both partners to adopt healthier lifestyles.
Coping Mechanisms – During challenging times, having a supportive partner can provide effective coping strategies and emotional resilience.
Incorporating romance into one's life, whether through intimate gestures, quality time with a partner, or practicing self-love, can have profound beneficial effects on both mental and physical health. Strong romantic connections offer a holistic approach to well-being by influencing emotional, psychological, and physiological aspects of our lives.
Parting Words From A Hopeful Romantic
It starts with understanding, knowing what inflames your heart and ignites your passion. And then sharing this with a loved one who reflects your own fire back. It deepens with attention and intent, giving loving space to recognize what strengthens your bond. It need not be grand or lavish — sharing a cup of tea or coffee, a surprise from the local grocer, or a handwritten letter using your favorite fountain pen. What is important behind every expression is meaning — my dearest, you are loved.
Happy Romance Awareness Month!
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Written by @lekzumali
Check out her musings on Instagram!
