Some Ways to Hibernate with Your Date:

Most of us aren’t happy when the sun is receding and we’re in for a bunch of dank cold weather. Here are some date ideas that can help you warm up to the idea of some winter-loving.

Experiment with Creating Warm, Yummy Drinks

Play bartender with your honey and create some hot toddies, alcoholic hot chocolate or coffee. Warm up some alcoholic apple cider with cinnamon sticks or create some virgin warm drinks and creative hot chocolates. There are tons of free recipes online or on Pinterest to try.

Take Couples Baths Together

Going to the beach or outdoor pool might be a thing of the past but you can still de-ice, detox and de-stress in your tub. And now, ‘The Book of Sacred Baths,’ has recipes for couples baths with essential oils that smell great, Epsom salt and joint meditations that you can do with your partner to connect and to improve different areas of your relationship.

Practice The Art of Warm Oil Massage

Want another great relaxing way to get close and warm up! Get some massage oil and warm it up in the microwave for 15 seconds. Test it to make sure it’s not too hot and then take turns giving each other a full rub down. You won’t ever miss summer again.

Have a Flannel Pajama Day

Today there are lots of fun warm pajamas on the market. Get some matching comfy fun PJs, a deck of cards, crosswords, some fun board games and even a book of questions. Your storm day will fly by and you’ll get to know each other much better.

Experiment with Making a Chili or Soup Recipe

Have some fun in the kitchen together cooking. Order Fresh Direct for groceries. Stay warm by the stove and experiment with some free recipes for chili and soups online. Then, you can freeze them and have healthy warm meals to share throughout winter. You’ll even save money by not eating out as much.

Camp ‘In’ Using Blankets & Make S’mores

Who says you can’t camp out in winter, WITH all the comforts of home? Take a bunch of blankets and create a romantic fort. Add some flowers, wine, great music, candlelight and s’mores. Substitute your cat for the bears and your lover will never miss the bed.

Cuddle to Romantic Movies

Penguins huddle in a group to keep warm in the winter. You can snuggle to stave off the arctic draft too. Get a great electric blanket or a soft large plush blanket to share. Watch some on demand new releases or romantic comedies on Netflix. You can even do a themed movie marathon like watching all the Sex and the City movies or Star Wars ones with snacks.

There are less outside distractions in the Winter so it’s a great time to make like the bears and spend quality time with your loved one. Use this as an opportunity to get close physically and emotionally, to save energy and money, to refuel and to soak up the love.

Dr. Paulette Kouffman Sherman is a psychologist and author. She wrote the “Dating from the Inside Out” published by Atria Books and the upcoming book, “Facebook Dating: from 1st Date to Soulmate.” She has a private practice in Manhattan and does dating and Relationship coaching by phone. Learn more at www.DrPauletteSherman.com