There comes the point in every marriage where romance wanes. It may be that there are work challenges or the stress of family responsibilities that leave us with little energy for each other. Alternatively, it could simply be that now we are married, the same efforts for romance, intimacy, and passion that we had when dating has fallen by the wayside.

It’s to be expected that married life will not always be sunshine and roses, we need the accept that and understand that a marriage needs work, creativity, and patience, but rekindling the romance in your marriage isn’t difficult and it is never too late to try. Here are some suggestions:

Celebrate special occasions

Put some effort into marking your wedding anniversary and other special dates. Your 10th, 25th and 50th anniversaries deserve a special gift. The 25^th-anniversary color is silver, so a silver rose can decorate your home as a reminder of the years you have spent together, but also a reminder of your wedding anniversary celebrations. Significant anniversaries are also a time to say thank you to friends and family for their support, either with a party or a meal out.

Make each other a priority

For romance, you need to spend some time together. Creating time just for your partner is really important in nurturing your continuing relationship. A cup of coffee in bed in the morning and taking a few moments in the evening to recap on the day’s events will strengthen your bond as it shows concern and cares for each other’s feelings and well-being. For couples needing additional guidance especially those in New York, seeking advice from sex therapists in NYC can be beneficial to explore new ways of maintaining intimacy and strengthening your connection.

Go out on a date

Plan your date nights, because free time is not always easy to find. Get into the habit of putting regular date nights on the calendar to show your spouse that spending time together is a top priority, which goes a long way in the romance department. Something simple like lunch or even a night out is a great way to reconnect, remember that romantic date nights should not stop after the proposal.

Listen to your spouse

What may be one person’s idea of romantic may not be another’s. Being romantic means listening to your spouse, so you know just what it is they find romantic.  Then you can give some thought for an original and thoughtful gift. When listening, put down your phone, turn off the television and give your full attention to the conversation. Professionals can help you improve communication between each other and reconnect your relationship. Attending couples therapy sessions can provide a safe and neutral space for both partners to express their needs, wants, and feelings. Further, practicing active listening techniques can help improve communication and understanding between spouses.

Share an activity

Pick something you will both enjoy and do it. This could be a local art class or a cookery course but could be a martial arts class, which not only releases pent-up frustrations but can encourage some passion and bonding time.

Show your appreciation

Be kind to each other, say thank you and give compliments. A compliment goes a long way to making someone feel special and important in your life. Small gestures of thanks show not only your appreciation but also shows respect and commitment that as a couple, you’re a team. Telling your partner, they look wonderful, sexy or great is a very important part of creating a romantic relationship.

Get passionate

Sex strengthens the marriage bond, and it helps maintain and build your relationship. Create an atmosphere of romance with roses. Pull the petals off one rose and put the others in a vase. Drop the petals on the floor leading to the bedroom and place several petals on the bed. Spice it up with some lingerie or some new sex styles.