(continued from previous page)
Warm, physical contact between spouses doesn’t only strengthen the social bond. It also lowers blood pressure in both men and women, according to a study published in Psychosomatic Medicine. Other studies show that affectionate touching lowers stress-related hormones like cortisol. Too much cortisol can cause body fat to build up and other health problems.

If you’re detecting a deficiency of hand-holding, kissing, and cuddling in your relationship, talk about it. Talk about the kinds of touch you like, how you like to be touched, and when it’s OK and when it’s not. Then develop a plan to turn back the trend.

Close

Related: Marriage Rituals That Boost Happiness

Consider these three options:

1.) Hold hands while talking to each other. Holding hands expresses intimacy. It can emotionally synchronize a couple, making you feel closer to each other. And, because holding hands can also be stress-reducing, it may help you both to stay calmer when discussing issues on which you disagree.

2.) Schedule a daily, six-second kiss. Make a habit of sharing a six-second kiss on the lips once a day. Plan it to occur at a specific time of the day, such as before you part ways for work or when you meet at the end of your day.

3.) Cuddle in bed. Many couples don’t go to bed at the same time unless it’s for sex. Bedtime doesn’t have to be only about sex and sleep. It can be a great time to snuggle up next to each other while talking, reading or watching a romantic movie.

Jon Beaty, a life coach and father of two, lives near Portland, Oregon. He’s the author of the book “If You’re Not Growing, You’re Dying: 7 Habits for Thriving in Your Faith, Relationships and Work.” [lz_pagination]