Why the Obamas' love is so sexy.(COSMO NEWS: Relationships)(Michelle and Barack Obama )

A certain amount of PDA among the newly coupled or recoupled is to be expected (think Drew Barrymore and ... well, take your pick), but in people who have been married for 16 years? Impressive. And when those two are the First Couple? Astonishing. Maybe even unprecedented.

The White House hasn't been a stranger to marital love, but it's usually of a much tamer variety. Reagan adored his Nancy and reportedly called her Mommy (urn, not sexy); the Clintons seemed respectful ... when Bill wasn't cheating. But the Obamas--let's just say they danced together at the inaugural balls in a way that implied the real fun would begin later.

Throughout the campaign, Barack and Michelle Obama's kisses, touches, and glances revealed them as not just a loving couple but also a couple in love--with all the passion that implies. The picture of their relationship is so sexy and compelling that you have to wonder not only How do they do that? but How could I get some of that? too.

It's rare, but it's not impossible, says Ian Kerner, PhD, author of Passionista, who broke down the elements of the Obamas' never-ending courtship for Cosmo.

PHYSICALITY: "They have a lot of nonsexual physical intimacy," says Kerner. "Seeing them hold hands and kiss reminds me of how important touch is outside the bedroom. Hugs can take you where words can't."

MYSTERY: The challenge for any king-term relationship, Kerner points out, is to "balance the two poles of knowingness and mystery. Over time, you become more known and dependent on your partner, and you have to find a way to hold onto a bit of unpredictability to nurture that and use ...