How To Keep It Happy and Healthy
Sex therapist Roz said in the film Meet The Fockers that after 2 years in a relationship, you have to work to keep things going.
It may seem like a line from a movie with minimal bearing on the real world, but research has found time and time again that there is a lot of truth to this statement. Why? After 2 years together, the honeymoon phase is over, and you may have moved in with your partner, started discussing a family, and even merged your bank accounts.
This does not, of course, mean your relationship is doomed to go beige, but it does mean that you will have to work to keep it going, and a lot of maintenance is required. There are, of course, differences with every couple, but there are basic tips to follow to help keep your relationship garden tended and beautiful.
Keep the Romance Alive
Just because you have been together for a long time doesn’t mean you should stop doing the things that brought you together in the first place. Always aim to make an effort to keep the romance alive with your partner. This could be as simple as leaving a love note or sending a text message to show your partner you care. Or, why not surprise your partner with a date night or weekend getaway to keep the spark alive? If there is minimal time for trips away at the moment, why not look for a sex shop online for some toys or lingerie for your private time at home?
Communication is Key
Communication is the secure base of any healthy relationship, and it is essential to maintain open and honest communication with your partner. Make sure you are both willing to listen and express your thoughts and feelings without judgment. By being open and communicative, you can avoid misunderstandings and work through any issues that may arise.
If you do find that you and your partner are arguing a lot, or you feel that you have been in a rut for a while, it may be worth looking into marriage counseling to help you open your lines of communication.
Practice Forgiveness
No one is perfect, and mistakes will happen, whether this is a miscommunication, an assumption, or a flat-out error. When your partner makes a mistake, it is essential to practice forgiveness for the well-being of your relationship. Holding onto grudges can create tension and resentment in the relationship. Learn to forgive and move on to maintain a healthy relationship.
Show Appreciation
It is simple to take your partner for granted day to day, especially if you have been together for a long time. However, showing appreciation for your partner is essential for a happy and healthy relationship. Make an effort to thank your partner for the things they do and always aim to do things for them, even if it is as simple as picking up their favorite snack at the supermarket or just making dinner for them once in a while. In the long term, all of this will pay dividends better than poor engagement followed by a huge gesture, which is commonly seen in movies.
