Have you heard of relationship rituals? These are the habits we form and actions we take consistently within our relationship, and they can do wonders in building on connection.
Here are some rituals that you can implement in your relationship - you may even be doing some of these things already!
Date nights at least once a month
Research shows that couples who have frequent date nights experience more relationship satisfaction, long-term happiness, and are less likely to break up.
Date nights are a great way to spend quality time together, without the influence of outside distractions. Your dates don't have to be expensive - find something to do that you both enjoy and focus on being fully present. Take turns asking each other open ended questions and really listening to what your partner has to say.
Greetings and farewells
How you greet and farewell your partner can really impact your relationship. A loving hug as you part ways and a kiss hello can really deepen your emotional connection. If you and your partner don't live together, or one of you is away, try supplementing daily greetings and farewells with a text. This lets your partner know that you are thinking of them even when you aren't together.
Phones away at meal times
Sharing meals together helps to create and build connection. If you can't commit to daily meals, try to make the intention to have a weekly meal together. Turn screens off so you can both be present and share in conversation.
Relationship check-ins
Check-ins are intentional conversations where you and your partner can openly and honestly discuss your relationship together. This is a time to discuss what's been working well, what can go better, what you need less/more of, important updates, parenting and financial discussions, etc.
Briefing each other about your day
Taking a few minutes to discuss your day with your partner can help to reduce stress. You might like to share your struggles, highlights, or tell your partner about your work day. Try to do this every day - when you greet each other at the end of the day, before going to bed, while having dinner, or at another time that works for you both.
Prayers, meditations or gratitude
Many people have their own rituals around prayer, mediation or gratitude practices. Sharing these with your partner is a great way to connect on a deeper level.
Virtual check-ins
Checking in with your partner via call or text during the day is a way to let them know you are thinking of them. If you are both working or busy, they may not always be able to respond. A simple "thinking of you and can't wait to see you later" or "I hope you're having a good day" is a thoughtful way to remind your partner you care.
Waiting to watch a show together
If there is a show you both enjoy, waiting to watch it together gives you both something to look forward to. It's also a great excuse to spend some extra quality time together.
Sharing in hobbies and interests
It's important to take an interest in your partners hobbies, but sharing in them can really help to deepen connection. If your partner really loves cooking, perhaps you could take a cooking class together, or try cooking something together at home. If one of your partners hobbies is bike riding, maybe you could go for a ride together.
Morning and bedtime rituals
In the rush of everyday life, morning and bedtime routines can sometimes be a bit rushed and hectic, especially if you are both juggling work and/or kids. When your schedules align, try and set the intention to share a cup of coffee together in the morning before rushing off, or turn the screens off 30 minutes before bed and enjoy a cuddle or conversation together.
There are many things you can do to create rituals in your relationship. Find what works for both of you, and don't be afraid to change things up and do things differently if you find that something isn't working.