If you’ve been in a relationship for a while, chances are things aren’t like they were in the beginning. Life gets in the way, people get busy — it happens. But that doesn’t mean that we have to sit back and continue to let it. If you’re serious about your partner and you’d like things to work out between the two of you, start coming up with some ways for re-sparking your stagnant relationship. The tips below can help. Check ’em out.

4 Simple Ways to Reignite a Stale Relationship - time apart, stale, relationship, reignite, love

1. Take Care of Yourself First

It might sound counterproductive, but you need to take care of yourself first so that you’re operating with your cup full instead of half empty. Start taking better care of yourself by making time for yourself. Schedule downtime and take it. Drink enough water. Exercise, devote 5 minutes a day to mediation, and get more sleep. Do something simple just for you — such as getting your hair done or reading a new book. Do whatever you need to do to look and feel your best, so you’re able to then transfer that positivity to your relationship.

2. Spend Quality Time Together

Oftentimes, couples who have been together for a while let dating fall by the wayside. Life happens and you grow comfortable together — and that’s great — but don’t let that become an excuse to not put effort into your relationship. Schedule time together, from date nights to distraction-free dinners. If scheduling sex seems weird (but you find yourself going weeks without making love otherwise) spice it up with some sexy new lingerie from 3Wishes. It won’t feel as planned if you and your partner have something new to look forward to together.

3. Spend Time Apart

Just as you spend time together, time apart is just as important. Being on top of each other all the time is no way to live. In order to be the best version of ourselves, we need time apart from the people we love. If you want a healthy relationship with your partner, you need to give each other space when you both need it. Learn to recognize when you might need some time to yourself so that you both can clear your heads, rest up, and be better for each other.

4. Express Your Love for Each Other More

While actions speak louder than words, don’t let there be silence. We all like to hear our loved ones say how they feel about us. Express your love for each other more often and in new ways. Consider spending an evening discovering each others’ love languages by reading “The 5 Love Languages” New York Times’ bestseller book or taking its companion online quiz.

Getting Back to the Way Things Were

Now that you know just how to get your relationship back on track, you can start making the right moves. From spending time together (and apart) to expressing your love for each other more and taking better care of yourself, there are several things you need to do to re-spark a stale relationship. And remember, it takes time so don’t expect things to happen overnight — just be thankful for the progress you’re making.