Try Tender Affection to Strengthen Your Bond

Affection and flirting tend to fall by the wayside in long-term relationships, and many couples feel too silly or too scared to ask each other for these small gestures of affection. But the reality is that we all crave affection — no matter how long we've been together. Physical contact without the expectation of sex is something that women in particular crave — though men need it, too. Maybe it reminds us of our days as infants, when we truly needed to be coddled, cradled, and simply touched.

Whatever the case, strive for more casual affection in your relationship — a pat on the behind here, a squeeze of the hand there, a kiss on the cheek whenever the urge strikes. You'll see that even the smallest touches can reinvigorate your relationship. Along with adding in more affection into your daily routine, try to spice up your connection by upping your flirtation factor. Here’s how:

Seduce each other with technology. Now that you have your partner in a sexier frame of mind, strike while the iron is hot. After a few hours have passed and your partner is no doubt stuck in a midmorning slump, send him a little pick-me-up like a seductive text message. Not sure where to start? Try texting him something simple but suggestive like, “Can’t wait 2 c u 2nite” or “Let’s put the kids 2 bed early.” Just let him know that you are thinking about being alone with him. Pictures are worth a thousand words: Maybe send him a picture of your lacy bra with the message “Can’t wait for u to take this off me 2nite.”

It’s okay to feel a little shy or awkward, especially if you are new at the seduction bit. However, the more you do it, the more comfortable you will feel, especially when you see how enthusiastically your partner responds. Viva la romance!