| All couples experience problems and challenges in their | | | | a regular basis. You can do thisduring the day through |
| relationships. These helpful tips are necessary and | | | | a special two minute phone call, by taking a walk in |
| should be applied so as to help build healthy love | | | | the evening, watching the sunrise or sunset, or |
| relationships and prepare for the challenges along the | | | | leaving a love note in a special place. |
| way. The following tips may assist you with | | | | 7. Find a hobby - that you can share together. Many |
| enhancing the love relationships in your life; | | | | people enjoy cooking, gardening, walking, jogging, |
| 1. Create Special Time - to connect with your spouse | | | | reading, playing board games, etc. |
| or partner, to share thoughts ofappreciation through | | | | 8. Attend to each other's - needs for intimacy and |
| words, actions or deeds. | | | | connection. Find ways to remember your days of |
| 2. Listening - can be a wonderful gift to your loved | | | | early dating, and give your spouse or partner that |
| one - don't forget to be attentive and present when | | | | special positive energy. |
| interacting with that special person. | | | | 9. It takes two - to tango, so be willing to lead and |
| 3. Schedule Date Night - each week, so that you and | | | | follow. |
| your special love have uninterrupted time to stay | | | | 10. Remember to -incorporate three important |
| connected. You can have a date on the town or at | | | | phrases in your daily interactions: "I'm sorry", "thank |
| home. | | | | you" and "I love you." |
| 4. Take Responsibility - for your feelings and actions | | | | A good relationship doesn't just happen - you have |
| by speaking in "I" terms, don't play the blame game. | | | | to work at it. Relationships do change (and they |
| 5. When you are angry - take a Time Out such as a | | | | definitely will) and when they do you need to be |
| deep breath, counting to ten or taking a walk, these | | | | aware of how they are changing and adapt to |
| strategies will help you avoid hurting each other | | | | thosechanges. |
| emotionally through harsh words or physically through | | | | For more information on developing and maintaining |
| hitting, punching or shoving. Many couples face the | | | | healthy love relationships, check out the website |
| risks and pains of intimate partner violence. | | | | below. |
| 6. Communicate - your love, concerns and feelings on | | | | |