When it comes to sexual intimacy, foreplay is essential. But did you know that foreplay doesn't have to just exist in the bedroom? Now, we don't mean that you have to start having sex outside of the bedroom - although that can be fun too! No, what we mean is that in order to increase your intimacy, you must bring back all of those little things you used to do. The definition of foreplay is quite literal and boring: any sexual activity that precedes intercourse. What you must do is expand your idea of what foreplay is, and can be.

Remember all of the little things that you used to do, back in the days when you were still crazy about one another? When you couldn't pass one another in the hallway without kissing, stroking her cheek, patting his bum? When you wanted to bend her over every countertop in the kitchen and have your way with her? When you sent text messages or email to one another about what you were thinking about and what you would do to each other later?

Yes, all of that. When you couldn't keep your hands off of one another, you continually fed that passion. Every action was foreplay. All of that touching, teasing and waiting builds up an anticipation for what you will do to each other when you are alone, later.

Here's a few things you can do to bring back that passion.

Touch each other more. Touch has proven to release oxytocin, the feel-good hormone that encourages bonding, trust and devotion and reduces stress. Make it a point not to pass one another at home without some sort of touch, whether it's a peck on his cheek or a stroke of her thigh. Hold hands. Rest your hand on her knee. Massage the back of his neck while he's driving. This is Jack's personal favorite. He likes it when I run my fingers through his hair and give his neck a quick scratch.

Compliment one another. This seems easy, but it is something that is easy to neglect when you are caught up in the stresses of daily life. When was the last time you complimented your partner? Be original and mix it up. Tell her that you love how she smells, or her laugh, or her sense of humor. Compliment him for being a great lover, or for fixing the dryer, or for being the most handsome guy in the world. And conversely, learn to take your partner's compliment with a simple thank you. Ladies, if your partner says your butt looks cute, don't bring him down by mentioning how fat you feel!

Schedule sex into your busy calendar. Even though it seems incredibly unsexy and contrived, all couples who make sex a priority do this at some time. Life has a way of getting in the way, and sometimes you have no other option than to make a date for sex. But look on the bright side! If you know that you'll be getting busy on Wednesday night at 7 pm, you might start looking forward to it, prepping yourself, or sexting your partner ahead of time.

Have sex first. Planning an elaborate dinner for a special occasion? Imagine how you are going to feel after several dinner courses, a bottle of wine and a rich dessert. Are you going to feel like getting frisky or passing out as soon as you get home? Yeah, us too. That's why we make it a point to have sex first. Push your dinner reservations later, and take your time getting ready for dinner. Take a shower together and enjoy yourselves instead of rushing off to eat. That dinner will be much better in a post-coital bliss.

Sext one another. Texting is a great forum for exploring your sexuality, especially if you are shy or have a difficult time communicating about sex or asking for what you want. It's often easier to bring things up via text message without fear of rejection. Start slow if you are unsure what to say. €I can't wait to get you in bed€ is an easy and simple start. Let your imagination go wild from there. The big bonus to this is that you can learn to communicate better and express your wishes and desires.

We think that you'll find these small acts will put you back on track to increase the intimacy in your marriage. Practice them for at least a few weeks and you will see some of that old spark returning.