Wedding vows give us an idea of just how long you are expected to live with that one person you chose to marry: "In sickness and in health, for better or for worse, for richer or for poorer, 'til death do us part." That's a pretty long time.
For most couples, being in sync doesn't happen all the time. The longer you are married, you will notice ups and downs throughout your relationship.
But with these simple and practical tips, you can go back to the honeymooning lovers you once were, no matter how long you've been married.
1. Kiss for no reason
As the time flies by, you may find that you no longer give each other as much lip action as you once did. Kisses may be limited to when the husband leaves for and arrives from work, or during super special occasions only. Surprise your loved one by giving him a heartfelt smack right on the lips the moment you wake up, or even better — anytime at all.
2. Get him a gift
The next time you are out doing grocery shopping or running an errand, buy your better half something that reminds you of him. It doesn't have to be extravagant or expensive; the key is to let him know that you are thinking of him. Don't have extra cash? Pick a flower from your walk home or simply write him a letter by hand.
3. Join him in his favorite activity
Married couples have a way of drifting apart, especially when each is constantly engaged in separate hobbies. Husbands may enjoy watching rounds and rounds of sports on TV while wives may like taking walks or doing some gardening work. Whatever it is that your significant other usually does alone, surprise him by joining him for that particular activity, even for just an hour.
4. Exercise
Believe it or not, staying in shape can do wonders for your marriage. Not only does being active keep your body and brain functioning well, but it also releases endorphins that keep you happy. These happy hormones help alleviate stress, lift moods and encourage a positive atmosphere. If you can get your spouse to exercise with you, all the better.
5. Take care of yourself
Eat healthy, find out which beauty treatments work best for you and spend time taking care of your physical self. This includes having a good oral health care routine (don't ever forget to brush and floss regularly!) and taking the right vitamins and supplements. It is important to always look and feel your best especially when around your spouse.
6. Talk. A lot.
Still the most important way to keep the sizzle in your marriage is through mental stimulation. You don't always need to have the same opinions on everything. In fact, the art of gentle debating is a surefire way to keep things interesting. When not in the mood for a discussion, simply talking about the most mundane things is still an excellent way to stay connected with one another.
7. Do something new together
Most couples simply accept old age and eventually stop doing new things. It doesn't have to be that way. Make it a point to never stop discovering new things, whether it be about the world, yourself or each other. Dare to try something new each month or even each year. Climb mountains, go camping, explore a new country. The list is endless.
8. Always remind yourself that you are one lucky person for having married your spouse
No matter what happens, at the end of the day, you are with that person for a reason. That reason may be as simple as having someone you love to grow old with, to share a laugh with, to make great memories with and to love and to take care of. Being grateful for those things will go a long way.
