By JEFFARAH GIBSON

Tribune Features Writer

jgibson@tribunemedia.net

Engaging in activities together on a consistent basis, distraction-free, has been proven to bring couples closer together while also increasing the overall quality and health of their relationships.

It is the reason why many couples prioritise alone time; a time set aside for focusing only on each other and connecting in meaningful ways.

Valentine’s Day this Thursday presents the perfect opportunity for people to check the pulse of their relationship. And there are more ways than one to do this.

Some may choose to do this over a five-course meal, through an adventurous activity, or in the comfort of their own homes.

Dawn Holder, general manager at Baha Mar’ ESPA, recommends using a couples spa experience as a way to truly escape with one another and recharge.

“Massage encourages the couple to embrace the present and fully engage themselves in the activity, taking time away to be with one another, away from the stress of everyday life. Just like oxytocin, the body also releases serotonin and dopamine during a massage. These chemicals increase feelings of affection, well-being and calmness. A massage not only improves your mood, but it can also help reduce stress and encourage thoughtful conversations with your partner,” she told Tribune Weekend.

ESPA Spa has put together an experience just for couples called the “Rhythm of Love” where lovers can rekindle and enhance their romance in a private suite.

In the suite, the ambiance, the romantic and relaxing atmosphere is created with champagne cocktails, chocolate-dipped strawberries and a foot ritual.

The only decision couples have to make is whether they prefer a body or face focused treatment.

“Then allow your personal therapist to do the rest,” said Ms Holder. “The precise products, speed and pressure will be skillfully determined to ensure you enjoy nothing but the most memorable experience and very best results.”

In addition to the known benefits of a massage or a facial, like improving blood circulation or rejuvenating the skin respectively, Ms Holder said there is much more to gain from the experience.

“We feel the focus of this experience is to reconnect with your partner with little effort, reducing stress and anxiety, heightening affection and spending quality time together. Couples who share experiences together and try new things together are more closely bonded. What better experience is there than the one that will encourage relaxation and romance,” she said.

ESPA Spa is guided by a holistic philosophy, caring for a client’s whole well-being, focusing on creating natural skincare products that deliver both instant benefits and also work beneath the skin’s surface to protect the long-term health and beauty of the skin.

Working with biochemists, skin experts and aromatherapists, the spa was inspired by knowledge gleaned from traditional holistic therapies and combined this with the scientific power of the purest natural ingredients from around the world, developing a range of natural products and treatments.

“We use our therapists’ knowledge to inform everything we do, creating signature treatments, intelligent therapies and incredible products. Our ESPA experts perform treatments all over the world in some of the best spas and skincare salons. Their knowledge enables them to treat everyone as individuals, creating personalised skincare and well-being recommendations,” said Ms Holder.