If Bollywood movies have taught us anything at all, it's that there's nothing we love more than love itself. But when the courting is over, and you've just settled in with your brand-new husband, there's a serious risk that the ho-hum, humdrum rhythm of our lives can get in the way of romance.
This is probably more of a reality for young East Indian brides, who belong to a generation of women who have shaken off dying cultural expectations of stay-at-home submission, to go out there and hack her own path through the jungle, just as her Dulaha always has.
So, Miss Newlywed, with your bright, starry eyes, how do you keep love strong, and let that man know you love him?
Kiss him every day before you leave for work
Studies show that couples who kiss every morning before parting have a lower incidence of stress-related illnesses, remain more positive through the day, and last longer as a twosome. And kissing is a whole lot cheaper than blood-pressure pills!
Watch out for his health
Sure, you want to show off your cooking skills, but fattening him up on creamy sauces and flaky pastries might damage the heart you're trying to touch. And healthier meals translate into a greater sex drive. Bonus!
Make his mom your ally
If you play your cards right, his mother-in-law can become one of the best buttresses your marriage can have. Face it: you've stolen her precious boy-child from her maternal arms. Make sure she knows you're worthy of him. If the chips are ever down, she'll have your back.
Ask him on a date
No, your dating days aren't over. If anything, they've just begun. At least 2-3 evenings a month, dress up, head out, and go to the kind of place you'd take a man you want to impress. Flirt like crazy. Dash home early and let romance take its course.
Allow him his man-time
If he wants to retreat to his man-cave and play an hour or two of World of Warcraft, leave him be. Don't let jealousy of his alone time make you resentful.
Say you're sorry
When you're wrong, admit it. Being wrong and strong is bad enough out there in the real world. Within the confines of a marriage, it's relationship suicide.
Keep learning about each other
Finding out about each other doesn't stop at saying "I do." Observe. Ask questions. Speak openly. Learn about other things too; taking a class together can open up a whole new interest that you can both enjoy... together.
Tell him
Duh and double-duh, you think, but it's not as obvious as you think. Too many people think "I don't have to say I Love You, he already knows." But know it or not, it's always nice to hear. So open your mouth and tell him. Then close your mouth and kiss him.