Remember the excitement of reaching the end of the school year? We were so ready to leave our books behind and throw ourselves into the glories of summer -- swimming, running around, being in the sun ... getting hot, sweaty, and tired in a purely physical way. Isn't that the nature of play, after all?

Let's try and infuse our own lives, especially our intimate relationships, with some of that same mindless passion for play. Here are some night-time tips:

• Don't be so quick to turn on the air conditioning. With the windows open, a warm night with the night sounds in the background can help soften the mood and release the day.
• Turn up the heat. Start by simply massaging each other, avoiding the genitals. Let your skin and muscles relax and warm up.
• Whisper something you'd like your lover to try on you; and ask your partner to do the same. Make sure the requests are whispered; make sure you deliver.

And when you wake in the morning, let the balm of the evening before linger.

In my next blog entry, I'll offer some day-time tips for play.