One of the best things you can do as a couple is create your own traditions and rituals.
Rituals of connection are at the core of positive, healthy relationships. The little things you do as a couple create shared meaning and intimacy. That means your relationships are likely to be healthy, stable, and happy.
Think about how you and your partner can do small but meaningful things together to deepen intimacy and improve your emotional connection.
Here are 21 little things you should do together as a couple to bring you closer than ever.
1. Eat breakfast, lunch, dinner, snacks, and coffee.
When we get busy, it’s easy to miss the opportunity to eat together. But sharing a meal, even if it’s just once a day, gives you a chance to connect with each other, talk about your day, and improve your communication in the process. Put away your phone, turn off the TV, and just enjoy each other’s company.
2. Welcome guests to your home.
Sharing your space with your loved ones creates an opportunity to build a sense of community while strengthening your connection as a couple. Set aside a weekend date and invite friends and family over to your home to cook, drink, and create fun memories.
3. Exercise or go for a walk.
Exercising is always great, but doing it with a partner makes the challenge even more fun. This shows that you support each other in your goals, such as going to the gym, running, or other physical activities.
4. Please take care of each other when you are sick.
“In sickness and in health” is true every day. When you’re sick, make your partner soup, bring them medicine, or comfort them in any other way you can. Doing this as a couple builds intimacy and trust, even if one of you isn’t feeling 100%.
5. Refresh yourself with introspection and self-care.
Of course, your relationship with your partner should come first, but self-care is just as important. Make time to write, read, journal, or practice mindfulness together. By doing so, you can foster personal growth and show support for each other.
6. Go to concerts, plays, and cultural events.
Enjoy a night of entertainment and bond better than ever. Attend concerts, musicals, local exhibitions, etc. to get a better understanding of each other’s tastes.
7. Apologize or repair your feelings after an argument.
Conflicts and arguments will definitely occur in any relationship, but the way a couple approaches it speaks volumes about how connected they are. Taking the time to sincerely apologize and discuss your feelings after an argument will strengthen your commitment to each other.
8. I’m going to go dancing.
Dancing can be playful and exciting, but also very intimate in the right circumstances. Connect mentally and physically on the dance floor, whether it’s at a bar, at a dance class, or on the street outside your home.
9. Do charity work.
Volunteering has its own benefits, but sharing the experience with your partner strengthens your bond in the process. Make a difference in someone’s life by working with a local charity and positively impact your relationships as well as others.
10. Attend religious services and celebrate festivals and holidays.
If you or your partner have a religious faith or a more spiritual faith, you can demonstrate that faith by participating with each other in cultural events, festivals, holidays, or worship services. Please take advantage of it. You are creating a sense of tradition and opening up opportunities to connect on a deeper level.
11. I’m going to the movies.
When was the last time you went on a movie date? See what’s playing at a theater near you, grab some popcorn, and relax by watching a movie together.
12. Watch TV.
Not in the mood to go to the movies? Lie on the couch, watch a binge-worthy show, and sit and watch together. It’s a great way to unwind, relax, and enjoy each other’s company.
13. Play card or board games.
Whether it’s a game you’ve been playing for years or a new one you just bought, take time to connect in playful and fun ways. Playing games together as a couple gives you the opportunity to compete in a friendly manner while becoming closer in the process.
14. Take a vacation, a weekend getaway, or a local trip.
Sometimes it’s good to escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Pack your bags and go on a trip, whether it’s just for the weekend or to a nearby location. By going to new places together, you can create memories that will last forever.
15. Make art as a couple.
Even if neither of you are particularly creative or artistic, use this time to create something together. It might be drawing, painting, crafting, or writing. Whichever you choose, making art is a small thing that couples can do together that allows them to express themselves.
16. Lie down in bed.
Physical intimacy is very important in a romantic relationship, but it doesn’t necessarily have to be love. Spend a few hours together in bed, cuddling, touching, or just cuddling.
17. Celebrate birthdays, anniversaries, and other special moments.
Celebrating milestones and special moments emphasizes how much you value each other. Give your partner a thoughtful gift, express your gratitude for the life you’ve spent together, or plan a surprise for your partner.
18. Spend time apart from each other.
While spending quality time together is essential to a healthy relationship, it’s also important to spend time apart, pursuing your interests, and growing as individuals. After all, without independence and freedom, you cannot expect to find balance.
19. We meet again after a long time.
After spending some time apart, whether it’s for work or personal issues, make your reunion as sweet and loving as possible. Take time to talk about your experiences and really enjoy being together again.
20. We sleep together.
Set a bedtime routine where you brush your teeth, wash your face, and get into bed together. She ends the day in a good mood, and before she goes to sleep, she takes some quiet time to share her thoughts from the day.
21. Let’s wake each other up gently.
When the morning comes, start your day with a sweet kiss, a word of encouragement, or a nice snuggle. This will show that no matter how long you’ve been together, the love and emotional connection still exists.
Leanne Avila I am a certified marriage and family therapist in San Mateo, California and the founder of Lessons for Love. Her work has been featured in Psych Central, BRIDES, and Prevention.