We all crave safety and stability in our relationships, but we also crave variety. Just like we wouldn’t want to eat the same meal every day, we don’t want our intimacy to feel stuck on repeat. That’s where novelty comes in.
There are two kinds:
- Horizontal novelty (trying new positions, locations, lingerie, or playful ideas).
- Vertical novelty (deepening curiosity about your spouse, seeing them in new ways, and rediscovering who they are).
Horizontal novelty makes things exciting and fun, while vertical novelty keeps intimacy meaningful and lasting. Both are essential for a thriving sex life.
Try this tip this week: Ask your spouse, “What’s something you’ve never told me about what turns you on?” Listen with curiosity, not judgment. This single question can spark both horizontal and vertical novelty, adding freshness and depth to your marriage!

