Couples at any stage of their relationship can benefit from deepening their emotional connection. While some people wait to address their needs or concerns in couples counseling, you can try to get closer to your partner by implementing these simple exercises described below. Here are the top five couples therapy exercises you can try at home:
1 – An Extended Eye Contact
In this non-verbal exercise, neither partner speaks. Using just an eye-to-eye connection, you sit across from your partner in a calm, relaxing, and peaceful manner. You maintain eye contact for up to 2 minutes without turning away or breaking the gaze. During this time, you should allow all of your innermost feelings to come up. When the time is up, you and your partner can share about the experience and how it made you feel.
2 – A Special Date Night
Date nights are great for all couples, no matter how long they have been together. It’s easy to forget about going out on a date when you live with someone and see them on a regular basis. Date nights are designed to get you out of the house and allow you to reconnect. If you cannot leave home, send the kids to spend the night with a family member, and cook dinner for just the two of you.
3 – A Gratitude List
Let your partner know what do you appreciate about them. Simply take 5 minutes out of your day to express gratitude and let your partner know how they make you feel. Practicing gratitude can improve self-esteem and foster higher levels of connection with your partner.
4 – Touch Exercises
Physical touch is one of the key elements of the romantic relationship. For a simple, 5-minute physical intimacy exercise, try facing each other and taking a few deep breaths to synchronize your breathing. Move on to holding hands, making note of the warmth of their touch and how the closeness makes you feel. Take turns exploring various forms of physical touch together, copying what the other does in real-time. Try to allow yourself to relax and fully immerse yourself in the experience.
5 – Active Listening
Active listening is an excellent way to listen to your partner without interrupting while they express their needs or feelings. To do this, simply set a clock for 5 minutes and then allow your partner to talk openly. They’re free to express whatever they’re thinking about. It can be related to work, friendships, the children, relationship stress, or anything else at all.
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