Navigating Life's Journey Blog
Helping others navigate this journey of Life!
A weekly blog from the Family & Consumer Sciences Department
5 Rituals to Reconnect
Here are five rituals to help your relationship thrive.
1. Put down the screens during meals
It may not be possible to do this for every meal, but whenever possible, turn off
the TV and put away your cell phone. Your emails and Facebook feed can wait.
2. Have a stress-reducing conversation
Spend 30 minutes each day having a “how was your day, dear?” talk. It’s not a time
to bring up issues about your relationship. Couples who actively listen, take turns
sharing how they feel, and show compassion to each other will reap the rewards of
more emotional connection in their marriage.
3. Take a vacation
Take an annual vacation without the kids to somewhere you both agree upon. If your
budget doesn’t allow you to take a vacation, you might try camping or looking for
moderately priced accommodations nearby for a long weekend.
4. Exercise together
Go biking together every Saturday morning or take a daily post-dinner walk with your
partner. Sharing an exciting experience can bring couples closer together.
5. Share a six-second kiss
A daily six-second kiss will increase your emotional and physical intimacy.Physical
contact releases oxytocin (the bonding hormone), can improve our mood (for days),
and can help you stay calm. Holding hands, hugging, touching, and making out can reduce
your stress hormones (cortisol) and increase your sense of relationship satisfaction.
If kissing for six seconds feels like too much, share a hug.
Reference : The Gottman Institute Blog