The 5 step guide to maintaining a happy relationship

Forget flowers and public displays of affection, sometimes, it’s the smallest things that keep a relationship intact. Psychologists and official romance experts are convinced there are just a few simple tricks that will lead to a long lasting, happy partnership. From laughing to love making, here’s what to try:

A marriage study conducted in America with over 500 people between the ages of 18-90 revealed that making the time to spend an evening out together does great things for your relationship. Whether it’s a cinema date or just drinks at your local pub, making the effort to get dressed up and go our keeps a relationship fresh and exciting. So start swapping Netflix ‘n’ chill for a dinner and drinks date night, stat.

According to a study by the Society for Personality and Social Psychology in Washington, couples who make love once a week are much happier than those who don’t. Don’t go too wild though, couples who have sex more than once a week are not dramatically different, apparently, just a single between the sheets encounter is enough.

Even if your favorite person to hang out with is your other half, hanging out with your friends, family and colleagues are healthy for your relationship. Esther Boykin, the CEO of relationship institution Group Therapy Associates says “We are many-faceted beings and that means we need more points of view to have fun. Couples who have a great time together also know how to have fun with their family and friends.“

The happiest couples spend at least 5 minutes of their day hugging, according to clinical sexologist and author of Sex Unlimited Charley Ferrer. Do it in the morning or evening to increase the feelings of belonging and sharing.

Do you and your partner spend the majority of your time laughing? You’re probably in a pretty happy relationship. According to a study of marriage conducted by the Department of Psychology of the University of North Carolina in 2015, couples who really laugh together on a regular basis are more stable. “We can refer to the shared laughter as a sure indicator of a higher quality of the relationship” said research manager Laura Kurtz.