5 simple ways to improveyour relationship

Often, it's the small steps, taken every day, that can make a big, positive difference in cultivating
your connection. All relationships » — even the best ones —require continuous care and hard work. But that doesn't necessarily mean taking big actions or making dramatic changes.
Little changes also can be tremendously helpful. That's because simple, everyday positive
behaviours add up. Here are five simple ways you can instantly improve your relationship.

1. Focus on what you love about your partner:
After spending years together and dealing with day-to-day stress, couples can forget to
focus on the positive. Relationships can easily become a litany of "you didn't do this"
or "stop doing that." Instead, remind yourself
what it was that made you fall in love with
your spouse. Focus on the qualities you
appreciate. And don't forget to share those
thoughts with your spouse.
2. Touch your partner: When you have physical
contact, it is harder to remain closed off,
angry and disconnected. Just touching your
partner or giving them a hug can go a long
way in connecting you as a couple.
3. Listen to your partner: Take the time to listen
to what's important to your partner. If your
spouse has something to say to you about
their feelings, needs, reaction or wants, it
behooves you to truly listen rather than
respond with either your own opinion or
defensiveness to what they said. That's
because once you put down your defenses
and stop rehearsing your own responses in
your head, you'll be able to gain a clearer
and deeper understanding of your partner,
and your relationship.
4. Find the humour in a situation: Humour
heals. It provides us with perspective.
Laughter also releases a lot of stress,
allowing more positive feelings to ensue. Try
to find the light side of a situation, and laugh
together.
5. Get intimate: When you connect in a way that
is sacred to your relationship alone, you can't
help but feel more intimate and connected.
Plus, the release of feel-good chemicals also
enhances your love and attachment.
Relationships require regular maintenance,
and the above tips can help you build a
healthy, meaningful bond. Often, it's the
small steps, taken every day, that can make a
big, positive difference in cultivating your
connection.