There have been several interesting studies over the years that relate to men and their need for friends.
In 2001, a report was published by ABC News regarding a study on the dynamics of exercise and relationships for men and women. It found that men tend to be better about regular exercise when they get support from their friends, versus from family. It also showed that men with active friends tend to be more active themselves.
In July 2010, TIME cited various studies on health and longevity that related to friendships. The findings all point to friendships playing a role, for both men and women, in overall good health and longevity of life.
Then, in August 2011, TIME Healthland cited a study that showed a man having a "bromance" may actually benefit his sex life with his wife. This study noted that the couple's sex life can suffer if a wife is too friendly with her husband's friends.
How does a "bromance" benefit men and a couple's sex life? According to the article, "men rely on their close male friendships to fuel their sense of autonomy, privacy and independence, which are in turn crucial contributors to their feelings of masculinity."
If you are wondering how a woman's closeness to her husband's friends upsets that dynamic, the article went on to state, "When a woman steps in and usurps one of those close male bonds, she may threaten her partner’s manhood and his sense of male identity, thereby increasing the likelihood of sexual dysfunction."
The message from these studies to wives: be supportive and encouraging of him having a regular boys night out with his friends. Men need male bonding time to help decompress, to encourage them to be/stay active and healthy and to better be able to give you the good loving you both want for you to have. And, get your own friends. ;-)
Tips: Show your support for your DH in his regular nights with friends by making plans for yourself on those nights, offering to make or buy some of the food for their night and not interrogating him or being sulky when he returns home.
Image: Chance Agrella/Freerangestock.com
For some reason, it can be very difficult for many of us to simply and graciously accept compliments. We are quick to minimize them, brush them aside, refute them or in some other way, discredit them.
We need to stop doing this. When we put down the compliment, we are insulting the person who gave it. We need to learn how to accept their gift of kindness with grace and style.
The next time your darling husband gives you a compliment, say nothing but walk toward him with your sexy walk, maintaining direct eye contact. With your face close to the side of his, use your low, sexy soft voice to tell him simply something related to his compliment.
One example would be if he told you that you look beautiful to tell him in your soft, sexy voice, “Thank you. You make me feel beautiful.” Then give him a soft kiss on the cheek . . . or on the corner of his lips.
Tip: Remember that every compliment is a gift from the heart. Accept it graciously and you make the giver feel appreciated. Accepting the compliment is not about you sharing the same belief - it is about honoring the giver.
Image: Leonel Medina/Freerangestock.com
It's those little thoughtful things we develop into habits that can really help make a difference in a relationship. Today's way to surprise and delight your dearest husband is one such example.
The next time your darling husband opens the car door for you so you can climb into the car, be sure to flash him your best smile and say “Thank you.” Then, after he closes your door, quickly lean over, unlock and open his door. Try to hold it open, even if just a little bit, for him.
TIP: Try to develop the habit of doing this, as well as the upcoming Car Door Exit way to surprise and delight your husband. He will appreciate the thoughtfulness and appreciation. It will also help him stay motivated to show these little courtesies, such as opening your door for you, to you on a regular basis.
Image: czmarlin. GNU Free Documentation License, version 1.2. Wikimedia Commons. http://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:1967_AMC_Marlin_interior_drivers_door_open.jpg
