Start Making Choices: Well-Being


Reigniting the Relationship Spark


February 4, 2008 Send to a Friend email   Print print
During the dark, chilly winter months, it’s easy to fall into a funk, especially within your relationship with that special someone. Don’t let the cold weather cast a chill over your love; follow these five steps to heat up and keep that spark throughout the winter and beyond.
  1. Keep the Lines of Communication Open
    Stress at work, seasonal blues, feeling cooped up inside due to cold weather: All these elements can take a toll on your relationship. Don’t let tensions build up only to explode over something small. Be sure to talk to your mate about your worries and current state of mind. When you realize that you can share your problems with each other, your relationship will grow deeper and closer through that shared trust.
  2. Be Spontaneous!
    Routines are great for keeping you on task and balanced, but they can take all the fun out of your love life. Think of the early weeks of your relationship; remember the spontaneous fun you used to have? Rekindle that spark by doing enjoyable, inexpensive activities that break up your routine. Go to a midnight movie together. Light a fire in the fireplace, and toast marshmallows over it while snuggling under blankets. Bundle up and go for an early morning walk together. You’ll be surprised at how much fun you can have, and the memories you can build, when you reintroduce spontaneity into your relationship.
  3. Write Love Notes
    Sure, it’s easy to send your partner an email or a text message, reminding him or her to pick up the dry cleaning or preheat the oven. But what about sending a unique message of your love in your own handwriting? Write simple, sweet messages to your mate and slip one in his or her briefcase or purse, stick one in the glove box of his or her car, or even pen one in washable marker on the mirror in the morning. Whenever and wherever the note is found, it will definitely bring a smile to your loved one’s face.
  4. Pamper Your Mate
    Who doesn’t love to be pampered? Take a lazy Sunday afternoon to totally focus on indulging and spoiling your significant other. Let him or her relax in comfy clothes while you prepare a small tray of romantic goodies, such as cheese and whole-wheat crackers, strawberries, and dark chocolate squares. Enjoy your snacks together while watching a favorite movie. You’ll relax by helping your mate relax, and a typical Sunday afternoon will become a day to remember.
  5. Relive Favorite Memories
    Have a favorite song that always reminds you of your mate? What about a favorite photograph or poem? Set aside an evening to go over past memories with your loved one by looking through old photo albums, listening to music, and reading each other beloved poems and quotes. You’ll reignite your love by remembering the good times, and make a new memory of a great evening together in the process.
 
Topics: Relationships
 

Most Popular Articles

De-stress and Slim Down

Is daily stress weighing you down? Find out how fighting everyday stress can…

view article

Mono-Task

Everyone multitasks to some degree. Whether we're driving and talking on the phone…

view article

Speed-Clean Your House

Spring is a great time to clear the cobwebs and get organized. But…

view article

Want a Better Sense of Well-Being?

Sign up for your free, personalized Balanced Life Plan. We'll provide daily nutrition, activity, and well-being recommendations to help you keep your life in balance.

Learn more.
Already registered? Log in.



SmartShop Tip
Save money, calories, and sodium by making your own tortilla chips.
Tips for better balance



Now It's Easier To Eat a Balanced Meal!




Ask Dr. Rippe

Ask Dr. Rippe My Pyramid nutritional information