One of the ultimate “relationship goals” for any couple is to have a long, healthy, and happy marriage. However, what most aren’t aware of is that it requires intentional and consistent effort. Work, kids, and other outside obligations consume your time and energy, leaving little time to invest in your relationship. Consequently, the magic, spontaneity, passion, and intimacy fade, creating an awkward distance between you and your spouse.
While you might assume this relational stagnation means you’re heading for divorce, that’s not the case. You can restore your marriage and reignite the passion with time, creativity, and intentionality. Continue reading for advice.
Self-Care
Many people don’t realize how important self-care is in a marriage. When one or the other partner neglects their physical or emotional well-being, it causes a strain on the relationship. For starters, when you’re not taking care of yourself, it lowers your confidence causing you to project onto your partner. Not to mention, medical and mental health problems place an unnecessary burden on your spouse.
Married couples should always practice self-care. Develop healthy lifestyle habits like eating a well-balanced diet, staying active, and getting adequate sleep. You should also prioritize hygiene and grooming to keep up your appearance. Lastly, invest in your hobbies, learn new things, and spend time with friends to improve your mood and maintain a sense of independence.
Early Morning Or Late Night Talks
When was the last time you and your spouse discussed something other than your problems, the kids, finances, or essential family needs? Although these subject matters shouldn’t be ignored, it’s important to talk to your partner about other things. While you are a couple, you lead individual lives and are constantly growing. Communicating ensures that you stay connected in every aspect. Schedule some time in the mornings before work or after you’ve put the kids to bed to have an intimate conversation.
Continue Dating Your Spouse
If your daily routines consist of taking the kids to school, going to work, running errands, and returning home, it’s time to switch things up. This monotonous schedule takes the spontaneity out of the marriage. While you have responsibilities to take care of, make your partner feel special by continuing to date each other.
Try to have a date night at least twice a month to keep things exciting. Whether you spend the evening out or get someone to watch the kids and have an intimate evening at home, uninterrupted time alone can help you fall in love all over again.
Plan A Romantic Getaway
Sometimes all your marriage needs is a romantic getaway. You and your partner need time away from everyday routines and responsibilities to replenish, recharge, and reconnect. There’s something about spending time together in a new destination that brings the spark back to your relationship. You can head to a cozy cabin in the mountains, escape to a tropical destination, or go sightseeing in a big city.
Renew Your Vows
If you want to recapture that magical feeling you felt on your wedding day or simply remind your partner how committed you are to the marriage, consider renewing your vows. The idea is to do things you may have wanted to do during your first wedding but couldn’t afford it. For instance, you can upgrade your wife’s gold ring to a baguette wedding band. Instead of hosting your ceremony at a church or wedding venue, plan a destination renewal.
Planning your vow renewal together can help bring the fun and excitement back to your marriage while exchanging rings and expressions of love will deepen your bond.
Having a long, healthy, and happy marriage is the goal, but it doesn’t come without effort. As “life” can create distance between spouses, it’s essential to be intentional about keeping the love alive. Don’t let monotony and hectic schedules get the better of your marriage. Instead, find ways to reignite the flame. Self-care, intentional conversations, date nights, romantic getaways, and vow renewals are great ways to bring back the magic.
