Romantic Ideas for the Married Couple

Keeping the romance alive in your marriage is a great way to make it last forever. To help understand why romance for many couples seems to fizzle after marriage and for romantic ideas for the married couple, I have interviewed psychotherapist Dr. Audrey Canaff.

Tell me a little bit about yourself.
"I am a licensed counselor with a PhD in Counseling. I have over 25 years experience counseling adults, couples and children. My doctorate is from Mississippi State University. My Masters is in Psychology from New York University and my Bachelors degree is in Psychology from Empire State College . I am a counselor in private practice in Chattanooga, TN . In addition to my practice I am a consultant to organizations and agencies in areas of workforce development, outplacement and career management. I am a published author and speaker on mental health issues, career management and personal development. I have two upcoming books "Rocky Road: Navigating your Career through Rough Times" and the Sparky Series, a mental health book series for children. "

Why does the romance for many couples seem to fizzle after marriage?
"It takes work to maintain a marriage and romance. Romance fizzles because during courtship each person works on learning about the other, they put effort into their similarities and de-emphasize their differences. Once married the process of courtship and putting ones best 'face on' is gone. Those traits that one found endearing may be what causes tension in the relationship. Couples don't continue to work on their relationship and spend quality time with each other; they focus on family, work, etc. As a result, they do not develop as a couple and falter."

What are the benefits of keeping the romance alive in marriage?
"The benefits of keeping romance alive in marriage are increased happiness and personal satisfaction. A strong support system and a sense of emotional and physical intimacy increases happiness and personal health. Divorce is costly both financially and emotionally."

What are romantic ideas for the married couple?
"The following are some of my romantic ideas for married couples:

Incorporate spontaneity in your marriage. For example, have a picnic for dinner rather than the same old dinner routine. Surprise your mate with a mystery trip. Get your spouse's coworkers involved and have them bring your spouse to the start of the destination such as the airport.

Change things up a bit. For example, do something for your spouse that you normally wouldn't do. Hate football? Take them to a football game with their favorite team. You may hate it but your partner will see it as a selfless act. Your wife loves watching the 'Real Housewives of....?' Watch a marathon with her. Don't judge and seem interested. This will show an open mind, something that couples sometimes accuse the other of no longer having. Take a day off from work lie in bed, eat ice cream and make love.

Revisit the haunts or places of your old dates. Think about what was your favorite dating experience and redo it. Remember and reacquaint yourself with what made you fall in love .

Lastly talk to each other however not about kids or work. By showing sincere interest in what your spouse has to say promotes love and romance."

Thank you Dr. Canaff for doing the interview on romantic ideas for married couples. For more information on Dr. Canaff or her work you can check out her website on www.DrAudreyCanaff.com .

Recommended Readings:
http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/5644514/increasing_your_sexual_activity_in.html?cat=5">Increasing Your Sexual Activity in Marriage

http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/119410/how_to_put_the_sizzle_back_in_your.html?cat=74">How to Put the Sizzle Back in Your Marriage

http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/2859838/how_to_deal_with_an_annoying_husband.html?cat=72">How to Deal with Annoying Husband