Relationships aren't easy. However, couples in a healthy relationship knows how to weather the storm. With that said, if you want to keep your relationship happy, as well as healthy, then make sure you keep the following expert tips in mind:
1. Have Open Communication
One of the most important aspects of a relationship is communication. Healthy couples know how to communicate, and they don't avoid conflict because they know that's not the way to resolve problems. Furthermore, they know that the best conversations happen face-to-face and without the distraction of laptops, phones, tablets and technology in general.
2. The Small Things Matter
It's the small things that matter, such as simply saying thank you and please. Even if you've been with someone for decades, you should still say please and thank you. Make polite conversation with your partner and offer them a drink, a night out and just respect in general. Doing small things can go a long way when it comes to maintaining a healthy relationship.
3. Workout Together
There are many studies out there that show that couples that workout together are more happy in their marriage. In fact, several studies are cited by Psychology Today. These studies report that the physiological arousal that comes with exercising mimic the effects of both romantic arousal and sexual arousal.
Do you want to feel in love? How about sexy? If so, then workout with your partner.
4. Take A Vacation
If you want to energize your relationship, then go on a couple's retreat. Traveling together can be fun, but so can travelling separately. Many couples take their own short breaks, or they go on vacations with their own set of friends.
Being alone and making new friends can feel empowering. When you return to your partner, you both will feel more in love. The entire relationship will feel re-energized.
5. Laugh Together
Lesley Lyle is a laughter expert who believes that laughing and smiling will make you feel better. This is regardless if it's happening naturally or if it's being forced. If you and your partner are having a tough day, then you should try laughing together, even if there is no reason to do so. By doing this simple thing, you both will feel healthier and happier.
6. Eat Meals Together
The dinner table is when couples have the chance to receive nourishment and it gives them the chance to connect on a spiritual and physical level. Plus, having meals together encourages good nutrition, as well as providing a space where conversations can happen. It also gives you and your loved one the chance to laugh together.
7. Have Sex Daily
Having sex daily can remove anxiety that some people get when the time comes to engage on the act. Douglas Brown wrote a book about how a couple had sex for 101 days straight, and that this resulted in tension being reduced. Another benefit he claimed was that he and his wife became closer, even though they've been married for over 10 years.
Let's not forget there are other benefits that sex offers. This includes improve sleep, lower blood pressure, less stress and reduces the chances of getting prostate cancer. A lot of couples claim that having sex daily improves their overall health, as well as strengthens their relationship. Being adventurous also helps and can add a little spark to a relationship according to these guys.
8. Switch Roles
A relationship can become stagnant when it becomes too routine. If your husband tends to be the one that drives all the time, then you can be the one to drive one full week. If your wife is the one that cooks all the time, then you can take over the reins and cook the following week. Every now and then it's good to switch roles because it can re-energize a relationship and keep things interesting.
9. Don't Go To Bed Angry
Never go to bed angry. However, you don't want to be discussing issues when it's the middle of the night. If you have an argument in the evening, then don't talk about things if you're tired. Instead, go to bed but set a time to talk things out for the next day. When you guys wake up, things will be much clearer.
10. Tolerate Physical Changes
When you and your partner age, there will be physical changes. You guys might be tempted to point out your flaws to one another because you've become comfortable together. However, don't mention physical changes if your goal is to have a happy relationship.
For example, don't mention your partner's beer belly, stretch marks or thinning hair to name a few. Always tell your partner they are beautiful. Even if your partner asks you how do they look, you want to respond by telling them they look nice and not point out the physical changes that have occured throughout the years. This is how you'll maintain a healthy and lasting relationship.
