Lack of physical affection in a relationship is an excellent indicator that something in your relationship goes wrong. If your wife shows signs of distancing or if she doesn't touch you and hug you as she did before, you need to do something in order to save your marriage and keep it lively and happy. Lack of physical attention can be interpreted in many ways, but you shouldn't overthink everything and make the problem even worse. Nonetheless, you should definitely take action and do something about it.
1. Try to have an honest conversation with her
If you have noticed the lack of affection from your wife, maybe it's a good option to ask her directly about the possible problems in your relationship. You know your wife the best, therefore you will know exactly how to approach her. That's really important. If she doesn't like direct and straightforward conversations, try to indirectly ask her what's wrong. For example, you can make a joke that can reveal your intentions. Just try to approach her in the way that she finds appealing. Many misunderstandings in a relationship occur only because partners don't talk openly. Don't presume what's going on, ask her. Maybe she will still be silent, but trust me, you can't solve any problems without mutual honesty.
2. Maintain a positive attitude towards your relationship
Many people tend to become gloomy and dejected when they feel that their partner doesn't give them enough attention. That's another common mistake you ought not to make. If a lack of affection from your wife in your marriage is a real thing, the worst thing that you can do is to become gloomy and boring. Don't give up the fight, and don't let your assumptions turn you into something that you're not. It's completely normal that one partner demands or asks for a bit of a distance at times. Don't consider it the end of the world, and don't let dark feelings overflow you. Stay positive and be the guy she fell for in the first place.
3. Don't complain or condemn her
Women are prone to mood swings much more than men due to many reasons, from hormonal changes to increased sensitivity. You should have understood even if she is a bit moody. In no condition should you complain or make negative remarks about her behavior. It will make her even more distant or even angry. Like I said before, a conversation is a much better option than scolding her. You still don't know what the problem is, so slow down with judgment and negative comments. Who knows what's wrong with her, and until you find out, try to have understanding.
4. Try something new in the bedroom
Sometimes women don't want to talk about physical pleasure because they don't want to hurt their husband's feelings. But on the other hand, lack of physical pleasure or monotonous sex can make women pretty unhappy. You can surprise her with something she has always wanted to try, or you can talk to her about trying some new things. Spicing things up in the bedroom can make terrific changes in a relationship. If you're lazy or simply don't care about satisfying your wife physically, don't be baffled if you notice that your woman is becoming uninterested and dissatisfied.
5. Show her that she has your full support
Women are sensible but sometimes they try to hide their pain. Maybe that's the reason why your wife has been distant all this time. Even if she doesn't want to talk about the issue, you have to assure her that she can always count on you. That's what partners are here for. Don't force her to talk about her private things because people should have their privacy even in the relationship. That's why you should forget about forcing her to tell you anything and just be there. Be present. When she feels comfortable, she will tell you what has been bugging her.
6. Make time for your partner
If you are a busy man, I don't blame you for leaving any time for your wife, but don't expect that she will be happy in such a relationship. Women need time and they want affection. If you spend all of your time with your friends after work, or if you work overtime, that might be the reason for her to become distant. Try to spend more time with your wife, and she will feel happier.
7. Start with little things
No marriage is perfect, that's a well-known fact. But after discovering all the problems, you can try to solve them, one by one. You will still have to talk with your wife. Never try to make assumptions, because misreading her behavior can bring about even more problems in your relationship. Give your best to change, but don't strain yourself. It doesn't matter if changes are not imminent or sudden; what matters is that you're making progress.
8. Try to bring changes into your relationship
If your wife feels like she's stuck in a rut, you need to make your relationship fun again. When people marry, they tend to neglect the fun part of the relationship, which is a grave mistake. Suggest traveling to a new and exotic place, or something similar. Take her out to dinners in nice restaurants, or just do things together. It will certainly bring you closer again.
Summary
If you feel the lack of physical affection in a relationship, don't ignore that. People should be happy in a relationship, so I firmly believe that a lack of physical closeness is something that can reveal that something's wrong. Don't let that ruin your relationship, so give your best to make your wife feel like she's felt before. True love cannot dwindle away, so don't worry. Everything will fall into place.