Think back to your last vacation. Whether you were lounging on the beach or exploring nature, your days were filled with activities that brought you joy. However, once you returned home, the joy seemed to vanish, consumed by endless to-do lists and the monotony of daily life.
Rebecca Alvarez Story, a sexologist and the founder of Bloomi, believes that it is essential for adults to be intentional about incorporating pleasure into their daily routines. Crafting a daily pleasure routine can have significant benefits, as studies have shown that prioritizing moments of joy can enhance cognitive performance and overall happiness.
“A pleasure routine involves intentionally prioritizing activities and experiences that bring us pleasure on a regular basis,” Story explains. “It’s about making time in our busy lives to indulge in things that nourish our senses, ignite our passions, and cultivate happiness and fulfillment.”
“It’s about making time in our busy lives to indulge in things that nourish our senses [and] ignite our passions.”
While Story acknowledges the value of date nights and vacations in maximizing pleasure, she emphasizes the importance of incorporating smaller daily delights into our routines. These moments of joy can be both sexual and nonsexual, as long as they bring us happiness. Here is Story’s guide to creating your own daily pleasure routine:
1. Identify Your Pleasure Profile
Start by reflecting on how you experience pleasure and pinpointing your pleasure profile—whether it’s playful, sensory, kinky, relaxing, or passionate. Take note of activities that bring you joy and satisfaction, such as reading, enjoying nature walks, pursuing hobbies, or spending time with loved ones.
Lean into activities that align with your pleasure profile, but don’t be afraid to explore other complimentary profiles. For example, if you lean towards the passionate profile, try incorporating sensory experiences like aromatherapy or cooking special meals into your routine.
2. Integrate Pleasure Daily
Allocate at least an hour a day to engage in pleasurable activities. Schedule specific time slots for these activities, and remember that they don’t have to be lengthy—short bursts of joy throughout the day can be just as effective. Treat these moments as non-negotiable appointments with yourself, and consider involving your partner in your pleasure routine.
3. Date Yourself
Incorporating a daily pleasure routine into your schedule may seem daunting, but don’t give up. Treat yourself to activities that excite you, whether it’s attending events or enjoying a relaxing evening with your vibrator. Dating yourself can lead to a fulfilling pleasure routine that nourishes you both physically and spiritually.
4. Be Mindful of the Transition into Pleasure
Prioritize mindfulness when engaging in pleasurable activities, whether they are sexual or not. Practice activities like meditation or deep breathing to center yourself before diving into your pleasure routine. If involving a partner, take time to unwind together and focus on enjoying the moment without distractions.
Consider incorporating tools like the Caress Full-Body Massager into your routine to explore different sensations and pressure points on your body. This can enhance your presence and connection with your body, whether solo or with a partner.
5. Be Consistent
Consistency is key when it comes to reaping the benefits of a pleasure routine. Even during busy or traveling times, make an effort to prioritize pleasure. Simple actions like bringing a mini vibrator on trips or carving out time for unwinding rituals can help you maintain consistency and enjoy the full benefits of daily pleasure.
Embrace pleasure as a vital part of your daily life, and watch as it enhances your overall well-being and happiness.
For more insights on your personal pleasure profile, check out this Well+Good article.
