However hot a relationship is, the steam diminishes with time. That's true because in  every bond there comes a phase when novelty becomes luxury. Communication gap, callousness and differences in opinion are few of the factors that could dwindle the romance, apart from that seven-year-itch which now comes  much earlier.
 
"A fresh relationship is like a mystifying terrain where you have a lot to discover but once there's nothing left to explore, the cute eccentricities grow into aggravating annoyances," says clinical psychologist Shalini Anant.
So if you're looking for answers to why your marriage is crying for a tune-up, here's what will recreate the magic.

Fool proof formulae

>> Dress to kill 
Who says that you don't need to dress well at home? No one would like his/her partner to be clad shabbily. So, the first step towards rekindling your love is to focus on your appearance.
>> The 'bed' effect
In the bed lies the sure-shot formula of a blissful long-term relationship. So despite your hectic schedules, work towards establishing a rich sexual relationship. Better not treat sex as an obligation; it's a way to keep the flame burning.
>> One fine date
Remember the day when she accepted your proposal? Didn't you take her on a beautiful date? Then why not now? Celebrate every small or big moment. Use subtle tools like kissing, hugging and PDA. The idea is to ensure that 'no matter what happens, we have time for ourselves'. 
>> Say those magical words
The butterfly phrase, I love you, is undoubtedly the 'shortest shortcut' to keep your holy matrimony. The most effective antidote to a withering relationship is to not be tongue-tied when it comes to whispering sweet nothings. Come on, be a sport.
>> Getaways to the rescue
Surprise your partner with a small vacation this weekend. Just the two of you. Leave the kids with relatives, and leave work behind. Hold hands, chat, flirt and do all the things you've always wanted to do alone, and haven't been able to, in long.

Do it the celeb way
Pamper your partner with a surprise when it's least expected. It could be anything a bouquet, cards or simply reserve a table for the two of you at your partner's favourite restaurant. Even visiting a spa together is a tempting option.
-Riddhima Kapoor Sahni, fashion designer

I am a firm believer of the idea that before being a couple, you need to be friends. Long drives, outings, playing indoor games like scrabble do help in perking up the passion. Sai (my wife) and I usually take a quick trip to Goa whenever we get time. Such breaks do  wonders to our relationship.
- Shakti Anand, actor

Dating and going on holidays is too idealistic if one keeps today's hectic schedules in mind. One should be sensitive to the needs of his/her special one. Act according to what is required at the moment instead of utopian pursuits. I mean, if one day demands you to send your partner a surprise gift or flowers, then you should do that, without any thought!
-Nayonika Chatterjee, model

The simple trick is to begin your day by saying 'I love you' and ending it with the same. I think we underestimate the power of this sweet phrase. It can do wonders to your love life.
-Rajeshwari Sachdev, actor and singer