Spending time together as a couple is an important and necessary part of any relationship. Sometimes you can spend too little or too much time together. However, every couple should make an effort to spend some quality time together on a regular basis. If you are dating, this is easy. After all, that is what dating is about. If you are married or are in a long-term relationship, you may be thinking – we live together, we see each other every day! But, that kind of time is not quality time and it is not enough to foster a healthy relationship or marriage.
Relationships need tender loving care – they don’t just happen. Couples need to reconnect from time to time. For that matter, people need to relax and recharge once in a while. Daily life is stressful on both individuals and on couples. In order to remind yourself why you fell in love and make sure that you stay healthy and happy in your relationship, here are some tips on how to spend time together as a couple which do not take too much time or effort:
1. Watch T.V. or a movie together and not across the room from each other! Sit on the couch and cuddle or hold hands. This is quality time that does not take any effort at all – you probably do it anyway. Just make an effort to do it with your spouse. Physical contact is important and shows each other that you care.
2. Have dinner together – just you and your partner. I believe you should do this at least one time per week and it should be something out of the ordinary for you. If you normally eat at home, go out. If you normally eat with your kids, feed them earlier and have dinner without them. Whatever you do, make an effort to talk to each other and devote that time to just each other.
3. Take a walk. Sometimes weather prohibits this but there is nothing easier that putting on your shoes and walking around your neighborhood. It is good exercise and you are spending quality time together.
4. Go on a “date”. Granted, this takes a little more effort, but it is worth it. It doesn’t have to be any big thing but it could be. Go to a concert or a movie. Or, be a little more adventurous. Go on a bike ride or a river cruise. Do something fun that you both will enjoy. This way you recharge both your individual batteries and reconnect as a couple.
5. Get away together. A trip is great but even a day trip or a night at a hotel is something to look forward to. The point is to make an effort to be together in a way that expresses your desire to spend time with each other and have fun at the same time.
There are many ways you can spend time together as a couple. These are just a few easy suggestions. It may be hard to get started but once you develop a habit of doing these things, you will be amazed at the increased level of intimacy and love you will feel towards each other. A successful relationship must be more than simply occupying the same space. This is an unsatisfactory way to live your life. A little bit of effort goes a long way in maintaining a healthy and happy relationship or marriage.