India, Jan. 4 -- A s the New Year begins, many couples are looking to slow down and reconnect after a hectic year. While modern life leaves little time for grand romantic gestures, relationship experts say that spending simple, meaningful moments together still remains key to a healthy partnership. Kevin Ashford, an author and relationship coach with over 20 years of experience, says intimacy doesn't always need to be dramatic or elaborate - especially on busy or stressful days. Often, it's the small daily habits that quietly strengthen emotional closeness. In a December Instagram post, Kevin shared seven simple ways couples can stay connected in their everyday lives - gentle practices that can easily become New Year intentions without adding pressure. Short, sincere check-ins such as "How's your heart right now?" can prevent distance from creeping in, he says. "Even when you're drained, this quick emotional scan keeps you connected instead of drifting into silence or misunderstanding." "You don't need energy to converse," he notes. "Just closeness." A slow, intentional hug helps regulate the nervous system and reassures both partners that they are there for one another. You can read, scroll, or unwind individually while physically sitting side-by-side. Kevin says this shifts "alone together" into "resting together," boosting feelings of comfort and security. On low-energy days, small gestures matter - like bringing your partner a blanket, filling their water bottle, or turning off the lights for them. Noticing a single positive moment - such as saying, "I liked it when you checked on me earlier" - keeps appreciation alive, even when days feel heavy. Whether it's brushing teeth, skincare, or simply getting into bed at the same time, Kevin says shared routines help restore closeness without the need for conversation. "No conversation. No effort. Just presence," he explains. This small act can be grounding, calming, and deeply bonding - a reminder that you're a team, "even on low-energy days."...