TRY THIS ON YOUR CHAP

÷ First decide what you want to achieve. Intimacy, connection, comfort? ÷ Next, sit or stand opposite each other, and close your eyes for a few seconds to bring a feeling of calm. ÷ Now, gaze into your loved one’s eyes. ÷ Feel free to blink, too. This isn’t a staring contest. ÷ Really look. See how they’ve changed. It’s amazing how you can be around someone but never truly look at them. ÷ Applaud your bravery. People might dismiss the practice as hippy stuff but you need to be strong — or really want change in your relationship — to do this. ÷ Don’t have any expectations other than spending time in each other’s company without distraction. ÷ Even 30 seconds reconnecting with someone you love but don’t usually make enough time for is better than nothing — but aim for five minutes or more to bring back that spark. ÷ Try to practise regularly, or whenever you feel out of sorts with each other. Aim to keep the connection even during stressful, busy times. Don’t turn straight back to your phone screen the minute you’re done.