Love is in the air, and yet climate change, high gas prices, and the threat of economic woes can all contribute to our stress level, and in turn our desire for intimacy becomes nil.

Dr. Aileen Elkin, Ph.D., program director of the Stress Management and Counseling Center in New York City once affirmed: “When you are pre-occupied in a worried way, sexual interest diminishes quickly.”

It’s a well-documented fact that sex can relax the muscles and leave the body completely liberated of physical tension. Because sex involves physical contact in the form of touch, it has the potential to improve our well-being all around.

Part of the answer lies in lack of creativity and the energy to make our intimacy into a ritual. In a monogamous and strong relationship, sex has the power to bring two people into a state of harmony and exhilaration. As simplistic as it may sound, sex fosters a special kind of communication that is needed in order to promote emotional health.

Most of us are used to receiving little tokens of love like boxes of chocolates, or expensive jewelry. These gestures are wonderful in and of themselves in creating a loving tone on Valentine’s Day. These gestures of giving can enhance the mood for intimacy and act as a prelude to a ritual.

How about preparing for a “Love Fest”? The ritual can begin by welcoming your loved one home and drawing them into a scintillating conversation- not about finances, or day to day banter, but offering up pieces of a sexual fantasy. Why not leave yourself open to take a risk and try a new position? Have a copy of the Kama Sutra? Flip through the pages with your lover, and your wild orgasm will await you. There’s a lot to be said about the proverbial “quickie”- but enter your fantasy slowly because the most enjoyable sex reveals itself little by little. Invite silence into your love ritual. Disconnect all electronic devices. Don’t forget to display your most elegant sheets, comforter, and pillows. Spray the linens with an intoxicating fragrance like lavender.

Remember, sex will enable you to have restful sleep as it relaxes the whole body, and the sweet fragrance of linen spray, the soft texture of the sheets will be added tactile bonuses.

Jackie O‘Neal writes a weekly column In the Name of Beauty™