Sometimes you feel disconnected from your partner. As a Bethesda Couples Counselor, I know this can happen in relationships.
One day you realize you don’t even know what’s going on in your loved ones’ life. Maybe work distracts you, or you are busy caring for kids or parents. One canceled date night turns into two; the next thing you know, you can’t remember the last time you even had a meaningful conversation.
As a Bethesda Couples Counselor, I know creating regular connections with your partner is crucial. When you feel connected with your partner, there is a sense of comfort, security, and intimacy. Disconnection can create a lack of communication, distance, and not openly sharing what’s on your mind. Regardless of what’s causing the disconnect in your relationship, this can be a challenging situation to be in.
In addition to seeking Bethesda Couples Counseling, here are five ways to Connect with Your Partner every day:
Kiss or Hug Hello and Goodbye
Physical touch with a long kiss or embrace can help regulate your nervous system, making it less likely to start an argument as soon as you or your partner walks in the door. 20-30 seconds seems to be the optimal length for this embrace to promote relaxation.
Reach Out During the Day
Let your partner know you are thinking about them with a simple text that can go a long way. This lets them know they are on your mind and can provide an opportunity for a quick connection in the middle of your work day.
Express Appreciation
Intentionally seek things your partner does to be grateful for. Whether it’s starting the coffee in the morning, making the bed, or bringing home dinner, express your gratitude for that specific thing. Feeling grateful is one thing, but showing appreciation and expressing thanks can foster connection.
Create a Morning or Nighttime Routine
If you start your day around the same time or settle in for the night at the same time, create some routine you can do together. Maybe it’s having coffee in the morning and talking about the day ahead, or brushing your teeth together in the evening and settling into bed for a conversation and some reading before falling asleep.
Make Eye Contact When You’re Talking
Eye contact can feel intimate. Looking them in the eye while you’re talking and listening can help create a deeper emotional connection. It also conveys that they have your full attention- you’re not scrolling through your phone or thinking of the long to-do list in your head.
Feeling disconnected from your partner can feel a little hopeless. It can even have you questioning if your relationship is on solid ground. Know that it IS possible to reconnect and rediscover each other. A Bethesda Couples Counselor can help.
Contact a Bethesda Couples Counselor today if you want to learn more ways to create lasting connections and improve your relationship.
