Every relationship struggles from time to time. Every relationship is work, and keeping any relationship on the up and up takes patience, diligence, and lots of love. Life changes like having a baby, work stress, or moving can really strain a relationship. If you are feeling disconnected and looking for a way to spice things up, there’s one solid tip we know of that will surely help: do whatever you can to find more “together” time. It’s a great way to rediscover the roots of your relationship and find a clearer snapshot of your feelings.
What Qualifies as Together Time?
Most importantly, together time should focus on opportunities for both partners to be engaged in performing some sort of activity together. Think exercising together, cooking together, making something. Beer or wine tasting counts. Hiking counts. Sitting in front of the TV silently with blank stares, respective cell phones buzzing, does not count.
Find a way to minimize distractions. Cosmo offers some fabulous tips on “together” time with advice from experts on just what that means in their article Make Together Time Count.
What Relationship Experts Say
1. Abandon All Technology
“You’ll obviously be distracted if there are any external stimuli, so show her that your focus is completely on her by detaching from gadgets,” says Bobbie Reid, author of Clueless: Real Solutions for Men Who Don’t Get It and the Women Who Love Them.
Silence it, hide it, or better yet, leave it at home. Today, nothing seems to be a bigger struggle than not finding out why that tiny blue light is flashing, but no one seems to really know why. Is it really imperative? 99% of the time, no. So don’t be afraid to divorce yourself from technology for a few hours of together time.
2. Date Night Really Works
“Suggest doing an activity alone together for a few hours — whether it’s going to a comedy show, bowling, or hitting up a restaurant she loves,” suggests psychologist Diana Kirschner, star of webcast “Love in 90 Days Boot Camp.”
Making a plan encourages anticipation, excitement, and a sense of importance. If you plan something, anything from a walk to the bookstore to a weekend getaway, your significant other will feel valued — that’s what makes together time so special.
3. Take a Vacation
When the distractions of everyday life are eating away at your together time, that’s your cue: it’s time for a weekend away. Near or far, a change of scenery can refresh a relationship and help reduce stress from other sources as well. Of course, we’re partial to spending a weekend getaway in Amish Country. It’s easy to shake that technology addiction amidst rolling hills, peaceful farmland, fresh air, and local food. Plus, there are so many couple-friendly Amish Country attractions, it’s impossible to get bored. As a day of apple picking, antique shopping, or strolling through the woods winds down, you can always retreat to your own private guest room or Honeycomb and enjoy the benefits of a romance package right here at The Inn at Honey Run.