Recipe For a Healthy Marriage

by John E. Turner, LCSW, LMFT and Sally Connolly, LCSW, LMFT

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5 ounces of positive affirmations and gratitude Tell your partner all of the things that you like about her … and about your relationship together. Incorporate hugs, kisses and non-sexual touching.

4 ounces of open communication.

• Share what is going on in your life … at work, with friends. Let her know about your hopes and dreams.
• If there is something going on that bothers you, find a way to let her know rather than bottle it up and keep it inside.
• Be curious and inquisitive about your partner‘s life as well … and listen very carefully.

2 ounces of time alone together.

• Create your shelter and be alone together.
• Find a way to have a protected date every week, (even if you do not go anywhere).
• Develop a regular ritual each day where you spend a few minutes and just check in with each other.

1 ounce of sharing the workload.

• Work together with housework and caring for the children.