If you age with somebody, you go through so many roles—you’re lovers, friends, enemies, colleagues, strangers; you’re brother and sister. That’s what intimacy is, if you’re with your soul mate. Cate Blanchett

Be careful not to fall into the complacency of taking your partner for granted. Express your gratitude often and share why your partner blesses your life. Tell them regularly whatever it is you love about them. No matter how long you’ve been together, don’t forget those special dates and getaways—they are the lifeblood of your future. Romance will always liven things up, so remember to flirt with your sweetheart, and whisper those playful teases into one another’s ears. Don’t get stuck in a rut. Spice things up with a little variation to your normal routine. Keep it fresh by experimenting with some new experiences together.

Life is stressful enough, so it’s up to you to make sure you share plenty of laughter so that your relationship becomes a place of healing. Just because you can say anything to your partner doesn’t mean you should. Some remarks can create a lot of pain, so be wise in what you say. But it’s important to communicate what you want because no one can read minds. If responsibilities have taken charge of your world, be careful not to lose sight of what’s most important to you—the love between you two. Continue to inspire good health with each other and always express gratitude for the love you’ve come to share. All this generates long-lasting intimacy.

Spiritual Contemplation: What can you do to infuse a fresh moment of love into your relationship today? What are you doing to bring intimacy back into your life?

Affirmation: I am grateful for my trust in intimacy!