So your relationship is pretty fantastic. And your lover is amazing. You couldn't possibly be happier...except for one little thing that's bugging you. Sound familiar? Despair not! Whether your lover spends too much time watching television, thinking about themselves, or going through the motions under the covers, we've got a gift that will rejuvenate your romance.
Diagnosis: Couch Potato
Rx: Activate!
Couch potato paralysis is a romance killer these days. Doctors everywhere blame glazed eyes and flabby bodies on addictive reality TV programming and, well, couches. It's time to put the kibosh on the virtual world and load your partner up with some real live action. Grab a picnic basket [1] and head to the park, or get your blood pumping on an intimate hike. Check out the American Hiking Society for walking trails, hikes and parks [2] in your area—some even offer guided tours for lovebirds and stargazers on Valentine's Day.
Diagnosis: Jaded
Rx: Entice
Jaded indifference is the technical term for those who don't bother feeling deeply anymore. Luckily, in many cases, this blasé exterior merely encases, but does not penetrate, a tender interior (for visual reference, experts cite the cross section of a Tootsie Pop). Sudden movements around the jaded may lead to unwanted breakage, so we recommend you use caution and approach your sweetie with organic [2] chocolate. Lake Champlain Chocolates [3], which offers chocolate bars ($2.50-$3) and organic Fair Trade [3] hot chocolate ($9). Serve warm and enjoy the softening process.
Diagnosis: Stressed
Rx: De-stress
Stress syndrome is a universal epidemic that afflicts Americans across every line of race, class, gender, and age. Analysts concude it is the single most contagious disease in the world today, as almost anything can cause stress. But nothing soothes the body like a good stretch, so grab your partner and head straight to the yoga studio [3]. Even better, reserve a private yoga [3] session for two (sometimes called Duets or Shared sessions) and sweat it out together.
Diagnosis: Emotionally Exhausted
Rx: Nourish
It is not uncommon for the emotionally exhausted to appear manic, overtired, or undernourished—especially when they may have been reduced to a monotonous diet of Mac ‘N Cheese or ramen noodles. If your partner looks pale from too many late nights at the office, or too many days taking care of others, nourish them with a sumptuous homemade dinner. Try these no-fail recipes from our favorite cooks [3]. Terrible in the kitchen? Try giving them something easy they can whip up on their own, like Some Enchanted Pizza [4] from Trader Joe's or these gourmet organic sausages [5].
Diagnosis: Technologically Dependent
Rx: Unplug
If your lover spends more time touching the computer than you, you're dealing with a technologically dependent. Help them reconnect and feel sensual with a healing massage. We highly recommend products by companies like Good Clean Love [6], who do their part to "make love sustainable." Try the100 percent natural, vegan and edible Love Oils, personal lubricants, and pleasure butters ($15-$22). Set the mood with all natural Passion Candles [7] ($15) made with soybean oil, coconut, hempseed, avocado, apricot, jojoba and Vitamin E oils.
Diagnosis: Self-centered
Rx: Expand
Does your lover have monovision? Can't be troubled to put the seat down? Separate the recycling? The lightly narcisstic need your help to guide them toward expanded horizons. Kickstart their conscience and balance their impact with green miles that fund green energy from TerraPass [8]. They'll be on their way to carbon neutral with just one dose, and might even start thinking about the kind of energy they are putting out.
Diagnosis: Unadventurous
Rx: Inspire
Experts agree: unadventurous living leads to premature aging. To offset this behavior and reverse the trend, you need to encourage your partner to step outside the comfort zone and explore new territory. Coax your partner to play with you, by introducing a new element: Natural sex toys [9]. Made with non-toxic materials, these toys are often the safest (as a general rule when shopping you want to stay away from phthalates found in softer plastics and other toys that smell distinctly rubbery). For more information and a shopping guide visit the website for the Coalition Against Toxic Toys [10].