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3 Ways to Enjoy Your Relationship More

In working on her soon-to-be finished book, Marriage Gems: Unexpected Triumphs, Lori Lowe spent several years interviewing couples who have overcome adversity, and used their hard times to strengthen their marriages. These three tricks are amongst the top things she learned in the process.

1. One person cannot meet all of our needs, even if that person is our life partner. Family, friends and faith can help us maintain reasonable expectations with our spouse.

Related: Real Guys Confess: "I Married Up!"

2. Instead of focusing all your time and energy on fixing your weak areas, spend time focusing on your strengths and having fun together.

Related: How to Have Your Best Sex Ever

3. Touch more. Research shows all touch -- from fist bumps, to high-fives, snuggles, hugs and kisses -- help couples become more bonded. Especially in longer hugs and kisses, oxytocin is released to help us feel closer.

Lori Lowe is a marriage researcher and writer from Indianapolis. She writes newspaper columns and a blog titled Marriage Gems.


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