There's no doubt about it. Maintaining any relationship, especially one involving children, home and career, can be a challenge. Juggling various responsibilities can sometimes put love and a bouquet of roses on the backburner. South Orange resident and psychotherapist Margie Freeman, who has a practice in Maplewood, counsels couples on how to keep the spark alive and glowing in their relationship.

Freeman, who has been practicing psychotherapy for over 20 years and has been married for nearly 40, agrees that in today's times, relationships often are neglected.

"With the economic stress of a poor economy, often both partners need to work long hours and contribute financially, while juggling many other demands," said Freeman. "We need to take time out for love. Lovemaking wanes with all the time pressure couples feel."

"It can be a challenge to find private moments when we are balancing many competing priorities, such as work, commuting, household responsibilities, family obligations," added Freeman, "including children or aging parents, and social commitments."

In a recent Health.com survey, 21% of respondents said that low libido was the main reason why they were not having more sex. This did not surprise Freeman.

According to Freeman, there are many different reasons why women's sex drive diminish as they get older. Stress, depression, fatigue, child-bearing, poor self-esteem, relationship conflicts, and inability to reach orgasm are a few reasons why women many not want to have sex.

However, Freeman, who has a certification in sex therapy from Loyola University Medical Center Sexual Dysfunction Clinic, urges women not to give up.

"Sex often plays a key role in re-connecting couples. When sex gets better, it can improve the whole relationship, especially for men. When the relationship improves, it can enhance the sexual experience, especially for women," she said.

Freeman also notes that she has a large gay and lesbian clientele. Apparently no relationship is exempt.

So exactly how does a woman get her mojo back?

Freeman suggestions making certain lifestyle changes to reduce stress, get in touch with emotions, communicate better with your partner, and become happier. These can include exercise; participating in an activity with, and without, your spouse; and also making sure to get enough sleep.

"We need to take care of ourselves. We need to be active, be mindful of our nutrition, and get adequate sleep. Stay healthy and stay fit together," said Freeman.

Freeman also points out that even in a good relationship, eventually familiarity can diminish the level of excitement. "Our brains get used to a routine and we no longer have the adrenaline high that comes with novelty and not knowing what to expect," she said. It helps to add an element of surprise and variety to keep the excitement alive.

Jennifer Griola would agree with Freeman.

Griola is a West Orange mom of two, who is helping women and their partners in Maplewood, South Orange and the surrounding areas to create more passionate lives.

Griola worked as a Social Worker for 15 years and has translated her experience to coaching women in the health and wellness realm. "One key element I felt was lacking was offering women and couples a safe, supportive environment to embrace their sexuality and sensuality and to lead more passionate, intimate lives," said Griola, who is now an intimacy consultant with Pure Romance, a line of relationship aids.

"I help women connect with themselves in a more passionate way," she said. Griola has hosted a number of parties in the area where women gather together, drink wine and listen as Griola educates attendees on Pure Romance products such as massage oils and, well, other aids. "Simple things like a body lotion can help make women feel good about themselves and their bodies. I want to help women feel empowered."

Freeman shared other tips that couples can use to create more closeness, keeping in mind that a positive and happy relationship usually means a happy sex life:

1) Be thoughtful. Do special favors for one another. This can increase emotional and sexual receptivity.

2) Sometimes doing things together, even chores, can lead to a feeling of closeness and partnership, especially if you share your inner world with your partner.

3) Be romantic in the way your partner likes—flowers, candlelight, cooking dinner, or folding laundry. Pay attention to what your partner likes and be sensitive to your partner's needs and desires.

4) Be generous with physical affection and touch. Loving touch activates endorphins, promoting feelings of closeness, connectedness, and calmness.

5) Have some kind of sex regularly. There is evidence that keeping the sexual chemistry alive can keep you living longer and healthier. Be responsible for your own orgasm. Know what arouses you and communicate it to your partner. Express your feelings during sex. It gives feedback to your partner. It is flattering and erotic.

If you are unable to get your relationship back on track on your own, Freeman suggests seeking help from a qualified professional sooner rather than later.  "Address issues—both sexual issues and relationship issues—before they become entrenched negative patterns."