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Recently, China officially launched a 144-hour visa-free transit policy, simplifying the process for travelers worldwide who wish to explore the country. This initiative has led to an influx of international tourists visiting the Great Wall, renowned as one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. The Great Wall has transformed into a lively hub for visitors from diverse backgrounds.

Have you ever wondered about the true significance of the Great Wall? Interestingly, the first email sent from China in 1987 referenced the Great Wall, stating, “Across the Great Wall, we can reach every corner of the world.” This was a pivotal moment, marking the Western world’s first glimpse into China’s voice through the internet. That same year, the Great Wall earned its place on the World Heritage List, becoming one of the country’s first recognized cultural heritage sites.

In May 2024, President Xi Jinping emphasized the Great Wall’s importance as a symbol of the Chinese nation and a representation of Chinese civilization in a letter directed at the community living near the Badaling section. He underscored that the Wall embodies the resilient spirit of the Chinese people and highlighted the shared duty to protect and preserve this historical and cultural gem.

Often referred to as the “10,000-Li Great Wall,” this ancient military defense structure has played vital roles in maintaining border stability, fostering agricultural development, and facilitating trade. The terminology associated with the Great Wall has evolved through the ages, having been called “liecheng” in the Western Zhou period, “fangcheng” in the state of Chu, and later, terms such as “qian” during the Warring States period and “sai” in the Han and Tang dynasties until the modern designation “Great Wall” became established.

Historically, major reconstruction efforts took place during the Qin, Han, and Ming dynasties. Interestingly, these restorations were spaced 88 years apart between the Qin and Han periods and a remarkable 1,575 years from the Han to the Ming. While it’s widely stated that the Great Wall stretches “10,000 Li,” research suggests that the actual length may exceed that, with estimates of over 100,000 Li when considering all dynastic constructions. However, the most well-preserved sections we observe today largely originate from the Ming era.

As of 2016, the National Cultural Heritage Administration reported that the total length of all remnants of the Great Wall is approximately 21,196.18 kilometers, with around 8,851.8 kilometers dating back to the Ming period. The Great Wall’s resources are distributed across 404 counties in 15 provinces, autonomous regions, and municipalities in China.

Beyond being a symbol of China’s rich historical tapestry, the Great Wall also garners global attention. Numerous world leaders have toured the Badaling section, often sharing their awe-inspiring experiences. The first foreign leader to visit the Great Wall was former Indian Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru in 1954, alongside Chinese Premier Zhou Enlai.

In 1984, U.S. President Ronald Reagan and his wife experienced the Great Wall firsthand, later reflecting on their overwhelming visit: “Although I had seen it in photos and films, witnessing it in person was still incredibly impressive. Standing there, watching the wall disappear into the mountains, I felt something I can’t even express. China is like this Great Wall—great and profound.”

More recently, in 2023, Chilean President Gabriel Boric, a long-time admirer of the Great Wall, made it a priority to visit upon his arrival in Beijing. He expressed his admiration for its magnificence in the guest book, stating he was honored to represent the Chilean people in acknowledging its significance as a symbol of peace and a connection between different cultures and nature.

Ultimately, the Great Wall represents a symbol of peace, with each brick and stone reflecting the aspirations of the Chinese populace for harmony. Experts note that, at its core, the Wall’s construction served as a defensive measure, akin to the traditional Chinese value of seeking common ground while respecting differences. This ethos of cultural inclusivity and mutual development has been woven into the very essence of the Chinese nation for centuries.

In times of peace, the cultural importance of the Great Wall will continue to embody the spirit of the Chinese people, fostering national pride and inspiring the nation to move forward.

On October 2nd, California Governor Gavin Newsom officially signed a groundbreaking bill that paves the way for Amsterdam-style cannabis coffee shops across the state. This new legislation permits consumers not only to purchase cannabis but also to savor fresh food, beverages, and live music—all in one vibrant location. The law is set to take effect on January 1st of next year.

Assembly Bill 1775 grants local governments in California the power to authorize licensed cannabis retailers to serve freshly prepared food and drinks on-site, as well as to host live music events.

In an interview, Assemblymember Matt Haney, who introduced the bill, expressed enthusiasm about the new opportunities this legislation creates. “Many people want the ability to legally enjoy cannabis with others. This has finally been legalized in California. Without a doubt, cannabis coffee shops will bring significant benefits to the state’s economy, culture, and creativity,” he said.

Currently, cannabis retailers are restricted to selling only pre-packaged food and beverages, such as candies and bottled water. Critics argue that these limitations hinder the growth of small cannabis businesses, making the new law a step toward greater freedom in the industry.

Governor Newsom had previously vetoed an earlier version of this bill last year due to concerns it could undermine California’s long-standing smoke-free workplace initiatives.

Senator Benjamin Allen, a co-sponsor of the new legislation, highlighted that several amendments have been added to address public health considerations. These include requirements for coffee shops to post warnings indicating the presence of cannabis, assessments related to secondhand smoke and workplace hazards, and recommendations for local governments to develop guidelines for ventilation and filtration.

Haney also emphasized that the passage of AB 1775 could significantly impact the illegal cannabis trade. According to his office, California’s legal cannabis sales reached $4 billion in 2020, while the illegal market exceeded $8 billion in the same year.

On September 30, during an engaging interview, leading scholars discussed the enduring influence of Confucius and his philosophy, which has shaped China’s development and the values of Eastern societies for more than two millennia. One scholar remarked, “Without Confucius, history would be a long night.”

Every year, on September 28, individuals from various sectors convene in Qufu, the birthplace of Confucius, to pay their respects to this historical icon. Since the inaugural “Qufu Confucius Birthday Celebration” in 1984, the China International Confucius Cultural Festival has significantly expanded its international presence and influence, with the upcoming 2024 festival marking a remarkable 40 years of celebration.

Professor Yang Chaoming, a respected scholar from Shandong University and Vice President of the International Confucian Association, pointed out that Confucius imagined a world where everyone contributes to the common good—a vision embraced by many throughout Chinese history. He emphasized that Confucian culture, as a vibrant and practical civilization, continues to shape values, thought processes, and behaviors across East Asia and beyond. The rituals honoring Confucius, therefore, remain both relevant and impactful after centuries.

This year’s festival launched the “Cultural Institutions in the World” initiative, bringing together nearly a hundred educators, scholars, and administrators from countries such as Japan, South Korea, and France to exchange valuable insights on cultural heritage preservation and promotion. Participants stressed the importance of creatively reinterpreting and innovating traditional culture to engage contemporary audiences while leveraging new digital trends for wider cultural outreach.

Wang Xuedian, a member of the National Committee and Dean of the Shandong University Institute of Confucian Studies, highlighted that this year’s festival laid the groundwork for promoting socialist core values, while integrating Marxist principles with China’s rich cultural heritage, signaling a promising new phase.

The festival also focused on the youth, acknowledging that their engagement is crucial for securing the future. Through initiatives like the “My View of Confucius” project, young people from around the globe shared their views on Confucian values during the festivity. An Australian participant reflected on her appreciation for the traditional attire she donned during her graduation in China, linking it to Confucius’s ideals of propriety and cultural pride.

First-time attendee Fan Dingqi, a student from Hong Kong, expressed how powerfully such events connect participants to history. Many attendees voiced a shared responsibility to preserve and promote traditional culture, particularly among younger generations.

Yang Chaoming contended that today’s youth participation in these rituals enhances cultural understanding and fosters confidence, motivating them to embrace their roles as cultural custodians. He emphasized the need to delve deeper into traditional cultural values and authentically present them to inspire future generations.

With over 370 guests from 36 countries, the festival showcased its international appeal. Attendees included representatives from academic institutions, government bodies, and youth organizations, forming a diverse coalition committed to cultural exchange and mutual understanding.

Indonesian student Zhang Minghui saw Confucianism as a bridge connecting Chinese culture to the world. Meanwhile, Moroccan doctoral student Chen Shiyao shared her determination to promote knowledge of Confucius’s teachings across different cultures through her research.

Wang Xuedian reiterated that as global dynamics evolve, humanity must not only rely on technological advancements but also creatively develop traditional cultures like Confucianism to tackle contemporary challenges. He urged for collaborative efforts to share wisdom and power in pursuit of a brighter future for all.

In summary, this dialogue revealed a timeless dedication to fostering cultural dialogue and mutual understanding—principles that remain highly relevant in today’s ever-changing world.

As the National Day holiday approaches, many people choose to relax at home. While staying indoors can be comforting, it can also bring some hidden dangers.

Xiong Weihong, a member of the Labor Party and the director of the Jianguomen Community Health Service Center in Beijing, warns that emergency cases and sudden illnesses during this time are often linked to bodily “blockages.” He highlights the gastrointestinal, cardiovascular, and respiratory systems as particularly vulnerable areas.

“During long holidays, unhealthy eating habits combined with a lack of exercise can lead to digestive issues such as bloating and constipation,” Xiong explains. “This risk increases especially when indulgent foods—like hot pot and fatty, salty barbecues—become staples, putting significant strain on the gastrointestinal tract and possibly resulting in severe conditions like acute pancreatitis.”

These holiday habits can also add pressure to the cardiovascular system. “Many people dine out or enjoy family gatherings during this time, often consuming excessive amounts of high-salt, high-sugar, high-fat, and high-calorie foods,” Xiong cautions. “This can raise blood pressure, blood sugar, and lipid levels, leading to a greater risk of conditions such as angina and stroke.”

With the holiday coinciding with the shift from autumn to winter, fluctuating weather can trigger issues like nasal congestion due to colds and allergies.

“Poor ventilation, prolonged air conditioning use, and inadequate protection outdoors can lead to nasal blockages,” Xiong advises. “It’s essential to ventilate your home, keep warm, and take precautions against the cold to ward off illnesses. For those with allergic rhinitis, wearing masks outside, rinsing nasal passages with saline, and keeping them clean and moist can be beneficial. Herbal teas or localized gua sha treatments might also help prevent problems.”

Xiong emphasizes the importance of maintaining a consistent daily routine. For a balanced diet during the holiday, he recommends smaller, lighter meals with a good mix of proteins and vegetables. Simple remedies—like massaging specific acupoints or drinking herbal teas made from dried tangerine peel, hawthorn, or malt—can ease gastrointestinal stress.

Those with chronic conditions like hypertension or diabetes should be particularly cautious. “It’s crucial for these individuals to follow their medical advice strictly, take their medications on time, regularly check their blood pressure and blood sugar, maintain a positive mindset to avoid emotional swings, and ensure they get enough restful sleep without overexerting themselves,” Xiong advises, suggesting certain acupressure points for relaxation.

As the holiday wraps up, many people may feel the effects of “post-holiday syndrome.” “This syndrome often relates to how a person works, their health, and how they spent their holiday,” Xiong explains. “Those who travel in haste, stay up late, spend too much time indoors, or opt for takeout over regular meals are more prone to symptoms like dizziness, fatigue, and gastrointestinal discomfort when returning to work.”

To mitigate these effects, he recommends gradually adjusting back to regular routines in the final days of the holiday—avoiding late nights and prolonged sitting. Light activities, such as walking or simple stretching exercises, can help re-establish the body’s normal rhythm.

On the evening of September 6, the San Diego Padres, representing the National League West in Major League Baseball (MLB), took the field in Southern California. They delivered an impressive performance, recording a total of nine hits and two home runs, with an early three-run inning that set the tone for the game. They emerged victorious against fellow National League West rivals, the San Francisco Giants, with a final score of 5-1.

Throughout the regular season, the Giants and Padres have faced off eight times, splitting the outcomes evenly. This longstanding “Battle of Northern and Southern California” has proven to be both thrilling and popular, with the Padres holding a record of 448 wins to 492 losses against the Giants.

The matchup attracted a crowd of 42,595 fans, making it a vibrant atmosphere at the Padres’ home field. This season, ticket sales for the Padres have ranked just behind those of the Philadelphia Phillies and the Los Angeles Dodgers.

Currently, four teams are in active pursuit of the three available Wild Card spots in the National League playoffs. The Padres from Southern California are in a favorable position, contesting against the Arizona Diamondbacks, Atlanta Braves, and New York Mets.

At the center of the Padres’ success was 32-year-old third baseman Manny Machado, who bat fourth in the lineup. He launched two home runs, one in the first inning that traveled 375 feet to left field and another in the eighth that soared 419 feet to the same area.

This outstanding performance not only marked Machado’s standout night but also made him the franchise’s all-time home run leader, with a total of 163 home runs.

In a recent announcement, Chisco Transport, a prominent player in long-distance passenger transportation and logistics for over 45 years, unveiled plans to deploy more than 50 brand-new luxury buses featuring cutting-edge amenities across various routes.

Mr. Buchi Ochuba, the Head of Business Operations at Chisco Transport, highlighted the company’s significant upgrades aimed at enhancing service offerings. He noted that Chisco is expanding its branch network to ensure greater accessibility for customers nationwide.

“The new state-of-the-art, air-conditioned buses are already in service on both new and existing routes throughout Nigeria and West Africa,” Ochuba shared. “We’re excited to roll out our customer rewards program. With our modern fleet of luxury buses, expanded branches, and new routes, we are elevating the travel experience for our customers.”

Ochuba emphasized that the upgraded fleet prioritizes passenger comfort and safety. “Traveling in our new long or medium luxury buses is truly enjoyable,” he remarked, accentuating the premium seating arrangements that offer generous legroom, adjustable seats, and enhanced comfort for long journeys.

These buses also incorporate advanced safety features, including real-time GPS tracking and superior safety systems, ensuring secure travel experiences. Additionally, onboard entertainment systems are available for passengers to relax during their trips.

When discussing the branch expansion, Ochuba expressed enthusiasm, stating, “We’re thrilled to announce new branch locations that will soon launch across Nigeria, making it easier for our customers to access our high-quality services. We’re also extending our international routes to include major cities like Cotonou, Togo, and Accra, Ghana. Whether traveling locally or across borders, our customers now have more options than ever.”

He explained that strengthening the Chisco Transport bus fleet will enhance their popular 24 to 48-hour nationwide mail and parcel service. Ochuba reiterated the company’s dedication to recognizing loyal customers with the new Rides & Rewards Programme.

“We believe in rewarding loyalty!” he declared. “With our Rides & Rewards Programme, you can earn discounts and exclusive offers with every trip. The more you travel, the more you gain by booking through our user-friendly mobile app or on our website, www.chiscotransport.com.ng.”

“Chisco Transport is committed to continuously improving your travel experience. Join us on this exciting journey—where comfort, safety, and rewards are just the beginning!”

Title: Bridging Past and Present: How Nanchang Showcases Its Cultural Elegance Through Travel

By: Lu Mengmeng and Ding Xuan

What are “The Eight Elegances of Life”? As implied by the name, these traditional elements encompass the qin (a stringed instrument), chess (qi), calligraphy (shu), painting (hua), poetry (shi), wine (jiu), flowers (hua), and tea (cha). They represent a deep cultural heritage and a way of life, vital to China’s remarkable traditional culture.

Historically, “The Eight Elegances of Life” provided a framework for scholars and literati who aspired to lead an elegant lifestyle, appearing in a multitude of classical works. But in our modern society, how can we reinterpret and express these elements? How are they connected to contemporary life? This year’s National Day holiday will feature a city-wide cultural tourism event in Nanchang, Jiangxi Province, themed around “The Eight Elegances of Life,” promising to shed light on these questions.

Exploring Nanchang’s “Eight Elegances of Life”
Nanchang’s connection to the qin dates back to legends surrounding Ling Lun, the legendary ancestor of music. At the foot of Meiling Mountain lies the Hongya Danjing Scenic Area, one of the “Ten Scenic Spots of Yuzhang.” Here, a statue of Ling Lun is set against breathtaking natural scenery, where the soft sounds of water evoke a beautiful melody, marking it as the birthplace of classical Chinese music.

Traveling northeast from Meiling, visitors can find the archaeological park of the Han Dynasty Haimen Marquis State on the west bank of Poyang Lake. In 2019, over 5,000 bamboo slips were discovered in Liu He’s tomb, revealing the earliest recorded rules of Liu Bo, an ancient board game considered a precursor to chess from the Spring and Autumn and Warring States periods.

Next, let’s delve into the calligraphy (shu) of Nanchang. Situated on the southern bank of Poyang Lake, the town of Jinxian Wengang is the birthplace of the esteemed Song Dynasty writer Yan Shu. This region boasts a pen-making tradition that dates back 1,600 years to the Eastern Jin period, earning the title of “China’s Pen Capital.” According to local legend, Yan Shu achieved excellence in the imperial exams due to his impressive cursive script, made possible by the high-quality pens crafted in Wengang.

Now, we turn to painting (hua). The scenic landscape around Meihu Lake hosts China’s first museum dedicated to ancient painters, the Ba Da Shan Ren Memorial Hall, named after the celebrated painter Zhu Da. Across the Gan River, the famed Pavilion of Prince Teng narrates poetic stories of Nanchang’s past, where Tang Dynasty poet Wang Bo famously penned the “Preface to the Pavilion of Prince Teng,” a hallmark of regulated verse.

Shifting focus to Nanchang’s wine (jiu), in Jinxian County, the Li Du Yuan archaeological site reflects a brewing heritage dating back to the Yuan, Ming, and Qing dynasties. Known as the “hometown of wine,” this area enjoys a brewing history that spans over 1,500 years.

Each spring, Nanchang flourishes with golden sweet-scented osmanthus blossoms, recognized as one of the “Three Treasures of World Horticulture” and celebrated as an auspicious flower in China. Officially designated Nanchang’s city flower in 1985, it symbolizes the city’s lively spirit. Tea lovers can enjoy Xishan Bailu, a highly regarded tea originating from the Tang Dynasty in the West Mountain region of Nanchang, known for its fragrant and smooth flavor.

Reflecting on Nanchang’s 2,200-year history as a national cultural heritage city reveals numerous surprises. By intertwining “The Eight Elegances of Life” with both ancient and modern themes, we uncover a distinctive urban charm.

Connecting “The Eight Elegances” to Urban Life
Nanchang is already working on integrating these eight elements into everyday life. Last November, the city hosted the “Eight Elegances of Life” Cultural Wandering Month, featuring events centered around the popular national animation IP, “Thirty Thousand Miles in Chang’an.” This immersive experience interconnected history and culture through performances and music, demonstrating the continuity of these traditions.

From September 15 to November 26 of this year, Nanchang will continue to promote its “Eight Elegances of Life” urban tourism brand through a new initiative that harmonizes traditional aesthetics with modern lifestyles. This effort intertwines the stories of these eight elements with contemporary business practices, offering unique exploration routes for residents and visitors to savor Nanchang’s elegance and warmth.

“To enrich cultural tourism consumption patterns, we’re presenting new engagement opportunities and experiences,” explained an event organizer. “We’ve collaborated with 50 high-quality merchants and cultural landmarks, including the Nanchang Porcelain Plate Painting Museum, to provide unique experiences. Collecting stamps from these venues offers participants rewards, from bookmarks to special color-changing mugs.”

To appeal to younger consumers, organizers have set up check-in installations at popular spots like the Pavilion of Prince Teng and Donghu Yiku for capturing moments of cultural elegance. Participants can earn limited-edition prizes by collecting stamps and “super symbol” tokens.

This initiative also includes a design competition inviting students and designers from across the country to create innovative pieces that reflect Nanchang’s unique characteristics within the framework of the Eight Elegances.

In Nanchang, the Eight Elegances are revitalizing urban daily life, serving as cornerstones for a richer quality of life. “Today, elegance infuses every aspect of life in Nanchang. By revealing the city’s historical and cultural wealth and creating new experiences around the Eight Elegances, we aim to provide visitors with fresh insights, showcasing a modern and stylish Nanchang that reflects its unique cultural identity,” commented Yang Xiqin, Chief of the Promotion Section at Nanchang’s Bureau of Culture, Radio, Television, and Tourism.

As the National Day holiday approaches, let’s embark on a journey through Nanchang to discover a city life that beautifully intertwines its rich history with contemporary elegance.

As gold prices reach new heights, Costco is experiencing an unprecedented demand for its gold bars, with reports indicating that 77% of their stores were out of stock by early October. Shoppers are flocking to Costco, drawn not just by competitive membership pricing but also attractive cashback offers, as many see gold as a way to hedge against inflation.

A recent Bloomberg report highlights that spot gold prices have surged nearly 30% this year compared to last, smashing previous records and outperforming various commodities, U.S. stocks, and bonds. This surge is largely attributed to gold’s reputation as a safe-haven asset amid geopolitical and economic uncertainties, as well as its role in wealth preservation. Following recent interest rate cuts by the Federal Reserve, gold prices recently surpassed $2,600 an ounce. In environments with low interest rates, gold, which does not yield a return, generally sees price increases.

Currently, Costco lists the pre-tax price of a 1-ounce gold bar at $2,689.99, but these are sold out. Their pricing is more competitive than that of traditional precious metal dealers, alongside membership rewards. According to Bloomberg’s analysis, approximately 77% of Costco locations across 46 states ran out of gold bars within just the first week of October.

There are indications that some financially strained Americans are looking to profit from rising gold prices. Many are purchasing gold at Costco and then selling it at pawn shops and jewelry stores, leading to an influx of sellers in the marketplace. Last June, Costco began offering Swiss-made 24-karat gold bars, which are packaged attractively in cardboard and plastic, resembling chocolate bars. During a September earnings call, company executives revealed that gold sales have skyrocketed, yielding over $100 million in revenue within a single fiscal quarter—approximately equivalent to 51,740 ounces of gold based on prevailing prices.

Gary Millerchip, CFO of Costco, noted in an email that gold and silver sales have become a “significant component” of their e-commerce growth. Meanwhile, Stefan Gleason, the CEO of a major precious metal retailer, emphasized that Costco’s offerings make gold ownership more accessible than ever. Currently, it is estimated that less than 2% of Americans own gold or silver outside of jewelry; even a slight increase to 5% or 10% in ownership could dramatically impact the market.

Li, a Chinese-American customer, expressed her disappointment after several unsuccessful attempts to purchase gold bars at her local Costco. She highlighted that enthusiasm for gold within the Chinese community is notably higher compared to other groups, fueled by daily discussions in mainland China advocating for gold purchases. In her attempts to find gold bars at her local store, she’s had to explore other mainstream retailers for a better chance. However, with prices consistently climbing over the last six months, the gold bar she once considered has now seen an increase of over $800.

In recent weeks, China’s A-shares have experienced a remarkable upward trend, creating a buzz among investors. With credit loan rates at historic lows, many stock traders are eager to seize this opportunity for investment. However, authorities and banks have issued strong warnings against the improper use of loans for stock trading, emphasizing that any violations will lead to immediate loan recalls. Despite these alerts, banks recognize the practical challenges in enforcing such measures.

A report from Securities Times highlights that as A-shares continue to gain momentum, investor enthusiasm for leveraging their investments is on the rise. By September 30, the financing balance across the stock exchanges in Shanghai, Shenzhen, and Beijing soared to an impressive 1.43 trillion yuan (approximately $203.7 billion), reflecting a significant increase of 45.9 billion yuan from the previous day.

The Financial Times, in its coverage under the People’s Bank of China, noted that financial regulatory authorities have instructed commercial banks to rigorously manage leverage and ensure that bank loans do not illegally flow into the stock market. This guidance underscores an important regulatory boundary that must be enforced.

Reports from Beijing News and Caixin reveal that the recent surge in A-shares has prompted many to consider borrowing for investment, leading to a noticeable rise in personal loans. On social media, a growing number of investors are sharing their intentions to fund stock trading with credit, with some even claiming to have already transferred funds into their trading accounts.

This year, with consistent drops in borrowing rates and aggressive competition among banks for consumer loans, several institutions have rolled out exceptionally low interest rates, with some dipping around 2%. In contrast, financing rates from brokerages typically exceed 5%. Historically, during favorable market conditions, it’s not uncommon for individuals to channel funds from consumer loans, mortgages, and business loans into the stock market.

The People’s Bank has reiterated that utilizing loans for stock trading contravenes regulatory standards, prompting multiple banks to reinforce their prohibition against the use of credit funds in both the real estate and stock markets.

For instance, Heyuan Rural Commercial Bank has declared that under national financial regulatory guidelines, credit funds are prohibited from being allocated to real estate or used for stock, futures trading, financial derivatives, or any other illegal activities. If a customer is found misusing credit funds, the bank will take swift action to recover the loan.

Nonetheless, China is grappling with significant challenges in preventing personal loans from being diverted into the stock market. Wang Pengbo, chief analyst at Botong Consulting, pointed out that channeling low-interest consumer loans into stocks is essentially a leveraging tactic that can lead to serious misallocation of funds and intensify asset bubbles. If problems arise within the stock market, the repercussions could quickly spread to banks and other financial institutions, resulting in a rise in non-performing loans and a decline in asset quality.

Are you noticing a decline in your sexual energy? From being overly ambitious in the bedroom to managing life with pets, experts reveal habits you might not realize are affecting your sex life—and how you can improve it.

**Is Your Bedroom a Mess?**
“Clutter can significantly impact libido,” says sex educator Portia Brown. “An unorganized space can lead to stress, which doesn’t foster a fulfilling sex life.” Instead of enjoying intimacy, you might find yourself distracted by laundry. Men’s sex coach Cam Fraser recommends transforming your bedroom into a “little sanctuary.” He suggests taking five minutes to tidy up before engaging in sexual activities—putting away dirty clothes and making the bed can create a more inviting environment. He also emphasizes the importance of avoiding discussions about errands or to-do lists while you’re in bed.

**Are You Cuddling Too Much?**
If one partner desires constant cuddling, the other may feel overwhelmed, leading to a disconnection. Therapist Natasha Silverman from Relate explains, “One partner pulling away can intensify the other’s need for closeness, creating an unhealthy cycle.” She reassures us that this dynamic is common and not a sign of a failing relationship. Cuddling preferences can change over time, so instead of making assumptions, she suggests simply asking your partner, “Is this okay? Do you enjoy this?” If cuddling is becoming a strain, allowing your partner some space may encourage them to reconnect.

**Is Your ‘Sexual Currency’ Low?**
Miranda Christophers, a psychotherapist, defines “sexual currency” as those flirtatious moments—like kisses and lingering looks—that build intimacy outside the bedroom. A lack of these affectionate gestures can take a toll on your sexual confidence. If you’re unsure how to reignite sexual touch, think back to what felt comfortable before and introduce those actions gradually. Christophers suggests having light-hearted conversations about what each of you enjoys to create a more receptive atmosphere.

**Are You Initiating Sex Effectively?**
Sex educator Karen Gurney underscores the importance of ensuring your partner responds positively to your initiation style. Often, people don’t communicate their preferences for how intimacy should begin. When one person always takes the lead, the other may feel undesired. Open conversations about how each of you prefers to initiate intimacy can help bridge this gap.

**Are Pets Interfering?**
“Anything that distracts can disrupt sexual response,” Gurney points out. Many clients report that pet interruptions during intimacy are a common source of frustration. For those starting new relationships, it’s wise to discuss pet policies before becoming physically intimate. Established couples should establish boundaries. If you’re dealing with a disruptive pet, Christophers recommends working together to manage distractions and finding ways to reconnect after any interruptions.

**Is Your Workout Too Intense?**
Exercise is important, but excessive workouts can negatively impact your libido. Justin Lehmiller from the Kinsey Institute indicates that long, taxing workouts can lead to fatigue and hormonal changes that diminish sexual desire. Consider balancing your workout routine and stay alert for signs of overexertion, such as low energy or disrupted sleep.

**Are You Waiting Too Long for Intimacy?**
Joan Price, a seasoned sex educator, encourages couples to reconsider when they engage in sexual encounters. She explains that blood flow redirected to digestion can make arousal and climax harder to achieve. Instead, she suggests engaging in sexual activity when your energy levels are high, like earlier in the day or before dinner.

**Is High Blood Pressure a Barrier?**
High blood pressure can greatly affect sexual function, leading to issues such as insufficient lubrication for women and difficulties maintaining erections for men. Dr. Shirin Lakhani emphasizes that managing blood pressure through diet, exercise, and possibly medication is crucial for a healthy sex life.

**Are You Trying Too Hard to Be Adventurous?**
Sexual therapist Emily Jamea advises couples to gradually ease into new sexual activities. If new experiences feel overwhelming, stress responses can overshadow excitement. Consider making “Yes, no, maybe” lists to help explore boundaries and ease into shared interests.

**Do You Have a Growth Mindset About Sexual Intimacy?**
Embracing a growth mindset means partners are open to learning and adapting sexually. Regular discussions about desires can foster intimacy and satisfaction. Price recommends starting conversations with positive affirmations about your current experiences before addressing areas for improvement.

**Are You Lacking New Experiences Together?**
Couples who seek new experiences outside the bedroom often enhance their sexual interactions. Silverman points out that injecting excitement into your overall relationship can invigorate intimacy. Approach your partner about exploring new activities together, framing your desires as opportunities for connection rather than criticism.

**Are You Open to Feedback?**
Effective sexual communication involves both expressing needs and being open to your partner’s thoughts. Price suggests creating a supportive dialogue about what works for both of you sexually, emphasizing that adapting based on feedback can enhance mutual satisfaction. Instead of becoming defensive, try remaining curious and asking for specifics to refine your intimate connections.

By exploring these aspects of your relationship, you can pave the way for a more fulfilling and vibrant sex life.