SHT tips for couples

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5 Tips to Bring Couples Closer By Kyle Roderick ThirdAge Staff

Thirdage.com

Even if your relationship is based on mutual respect, compromise and communication, a little nurturing can go a long way toward enhancing your bond and making your partner feel loved. Try these strategies to help foster a warmer and closer partnership.

Realize that no one's union is perfect and be grateful for what you share. "There are so many people out there who want to have a solid relationship or marriage but never do," says Los Angeles therapist Shari Foos, M.F.C.C. "You can grow your relationship a little bit each day simply by letting your partner know how much you appreciate them and never taking them for granted."

Commit to enjoying healthy activities that allow you private time and help release tension. Make time for these on a daily basis. For example, "take a walk together after dinner every night, garden together on the weekends or meditate together for five or more minutes each day," suggests therapist Charlynne Smithers of Raleigh, N.C.

Have a "date night" once a week. Take turns planning the activity and surprising the other with a favorite home-cooked meal or video, a long walk through the park, a cocktail at a favorite cafe or a bubble bath followed by a picnic dinner on the living room floor. It doesn't have to be expensive, just generous.

"Work on simple projects that will improve the quality and beauty of your life," says Washington, D.C.-area therapist Chauncy Sheldrake. "Besides giving you a common goal, you'll share the satisfaction of organizing your lives and doing good work together."

Examples could include taking an adult ed class, painting your house, landscaping, volunteering or packing up old clothes and unused possessions to give to charity.

Stay sexually active. If you and your spouse are losing sexual desire for each other, see a marriage counselor certified by the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy (AAMFT) or a sex therapist certified by the American Association of Sex Educators, Counselors and Therapists (ASSECT). Your health insurance might even cover the cost.

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-- Anonymous, May 11, 2001

Answers

see a marriage counselor certified by the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy (AAMFT) or a sex therapist certified by the American Association of Sex Educators, Counselors and Therapists (ASSECT). Your health insurance might even cover the cost.

And the government would be most interested, too.

LOLOLOLOLOLOL

-- Anonymous, May 12, 2001


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