The first stages of a relationship are always the best. Time flies by with strong infatuations and the butterflies in your stomach just won’t quit. You get to know each other better, discover new things, moods, situations and emotions, you can’t stand to be apart and can’t wait to see each other again. However, it is natural for this high to die down after some time, but that is not at all something that should worry you.
The relationship enters a new stage, a ‘calmer’ one than before, in which you can experience things in a whole new way. Instead of looking at this new chapter with disappointment and regret that the love hype didn’t last forever, let’s look at some amazing ways to further develop the relationship in a happy and healthy way.
Communicate More
Now that you’ve stopped gazing at each other’s eyes, there’s much more room for communication. And that communication needs to be open and sincere, based on a mutual understanding. Turn off the TV and put down your phone, and just take some time to talk to your partner. It can be over a meal or before bedtime, but whether you’re resolving an issue or just going over your day, it can definitely help strengthen the bond. Happy couples know that even if there’s conflict, you should keep the lines of communication open - let it out, then sort it out.
Spice Up the Bedroom Activities
The sex life you knew at the beginning of the relationship also transforms into something new. Instead of thinking that the spark is gone forever, try going along with the change and introduce some fresh moments that bring a whole new aspect of excitement.
Be intimate in different places, set the mood with some scented candles and music, dress up and then strip for your partner or – go shopping for some exciting new toys together. Again, being open with your partner plays a vital role and it is of utmost importance you discuss your preferences and boundaries before you engage in any new sexual fantasies.
Plan a Trip (Apart)
You probably think that a healthy thing to do is plan a getaway together, but that’s where you’re mistaken. Traveling separately can be just as energizing for a relationship as traveling with your partner. Being apart lets you spend some more quality time with your friends or other family members, and also gives you the opportunity to have some alone time as well. A relationship does not entail being together all the time and such separate trips strengthen trust between partners and make them feel empowered. What’s more, you’ll have plenty to tell each other when you get back.
Eat Together
Food brings people together. This hectic lifestyle that we lead leaves little space for family meals and we often forget how important eating together is for a relationship. The preparation can bring much enjoyment; you can surprise your partner with their favorite dish, breakfast in bed or a quick snack, or you can prepare the meals together, which is a wonderful way to bond and have a relaxed chat. Either way, sitting down to enjoy a meal allows for peace, relaxation and laughter.
Take Up a Hobby
Having a common goal does wonders for a relationship. Have a chat and decide whether you’d both prefer something dynamic, like taking up a sport or regular exercise, or something different like learning a new language, attending a pottery course and the like. Not only will you be spending quality time together, you’ll also be able to help each other on the way to success and share that amazing sense of accomplishment.
Respect Each Other’s Privacy
What every healthy relationship needs are healthy boundaries. Technology has made it so easy to stay in constant touch with each other as well as know anyone’s whereabouts at any given time. While this greatly facilitates performing our daily activities, it can put great strain or our privacy. Respecting each other’s boundaries is more important than ever in this digital age. It builds mutual trust and allows for a more relaxed relationship mood.
Compromise
Without compromise, there’s not much hope for a healthy relationship. Today’s society does emphasize individuality, but there are times you have to put yourself in your partner’s shoes and perceive things from their perspective. Balance is crucial here since you need to manage your own needs with the needs of your partner. Pinpoint the areas of disagreement and try to meet each other halfway. A little compromise now and then goes a long way.
Maintaining a happy relationship does require effort on both parties, but it is definitely well worth it. Play a game, take up a hobby or sit down for a meal together and you’ll soon see that it is those little things that make the building blocks for an enduring and healthy relationship.
Written by Theodora Evans
About the Author
Theodora is a passionate blogger from Sydney and she is someone you would call an IT nerd. Also, she takes great interest in psychology and helping people deal with their mental and anxiety issues. Besides that, she loves martial arts and enjoying the nature. Find her on Twitter.
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