Like the song says, love and marriage go hand in hand. But what many couples don’t realize is that it takes effort to energize the love at the core of your marriage. Life throws a lot of complications at you. If you’re not careful, influences like finances, health, children and stress can start to overshadow the wonderful feelings you have for your partner. Luckily, it’s simple—and fun—to take active steps to say in love.
Take Care of Yourself
Relationships are about two people. In order for those two people to have a healthy connection, each person needs to be happy individually. As your marriage progresses, remember to check in with yourself and take time for yourself. Keep your own circle of friends, engage in hobbies, manage your health and stay on top of stress. If you’re unwell or unhappy, chances are your relationship will suffer. Whether all it takes is a pedicure to cheer you up or you need a weekend away with your girlfriends once in a while, indulge in the things you love to do.
Say Thank You
As you establish a married routine, don’t take things for granted when it comes to love and marriage. Even if your routine works like a well-oiled machine, you still need to stop and remember to say thank you. Thank your husband for an unexpected embrace. Thank him for washing the dishes. Thank him for getting the car’s oil changed. Show your appreciation with a kiss or a romantic surprise. You don’t need to literally say “thank you,” but you do need to acknowledge that you appreciate his love and support. Likewise, make sure you’re getting the support and appreciation that you need for all the things you do.
Shake Things Up
Married life doesn’t mean giving up fun and spontaneity. Remember how much you loved dating? Hang onto that thrill by going on dates with your husband. At least once a week, turn off your computer, silence your phones, and go on a real date to celebrate love and marriage. You don’t need to make reservations for a candlelit dinner. A date can be as simple as a drive out to the beach, a night at the movies, or a Sunday brunch with pancakes. The point is that you both take time to connect the way you connected when your love began to grow. If you find yourself doing the same things together all the time, shake things up. Go to a local hotel for the night, find a new restaurant, or try a new sport or exercise routine together.
Get Physical
Intimacy is part of what makes love and marriage sacred. Intimacy can also come in many forms. As you go about your day-to-day married life, remember to make a physical connection with your husband. Touch his hand during dinner. Hold hands when you’re shopping. Run your fingers through his hair. Ask him to feel how soft your pants are you. You get the idea—the point is to touch each other as often as possible. Sex is only part of the big picture when it comes to the physical relationship you have with your spouse. While sex is definitely good to have, and very important, remember that simple embraces and gentle kisses are as much a part of the love and marriage that you share.
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