How to increase affection in a relationship

Affection becomes easier to sustain when it is frequent, welcome and not always treated as a prelude to sex.

Make small affection visible

Greetings, goodbyes, hand-holding, hugs and appreciative words can create more everyday warmth.

Learn each other's preferences

One partner may value touch while another responds more to attention or helpful actions. Ask instead of assuming.

Protect affection from pressure

If every touch becomes a request for sex, a lower-desire partner may begin avoiding touch altogether. Keep room for affection that has no further agenda.