Relationships can sometimes hit rough patches, and it may feel like you and your partner are drifting apart. However, it is possible to reconnect and strengthen your bond once again. Here are some tips on how to connect with your partner again:
According to author Dr. Kory Floyd, holding hands, hugging, and touching can release oxytocin causing a calming sensation. Studies show it’s also released during sexual orgasm. Additionally, physical affection reduces stress hormones – lowering daily levels of the stress hormone cortisol.
Communication is Key
Learn about your partner’s life, beliefs, fears, and dreams instead. Really get to know them for who they are and let them learn more about you too. When you focus on each other whenever you’re together, it can help create a deeper bond. So try not to be distracted or distant when you meet up with your partner.
Talk openly about your wants and don’t be ashamed for wanting something different than your partner. Yet, be sure to actively listen to your partner’s side. Your significant other could very well have fears that might be helpful to talk about. After you’ve been dating a bit, you might want to be exclusive. Or maybe you’ve been dating exclusively already and now you want to live together or get married. It might seem uncomfortable to broach the subject of moving forward to the next stage.
Effective communication is the foundation of any healthy relationship. Take the time to sit down with your partner and have an open and honest conversation about how you both are feeling. Listen to each other without judgment and try to understand where the other person is coming from.
As you have these early interactions—and throughout your relationship—make sure you’re truly listening. We sometimes have a tendency to think about what we’re going to say next versus absorbing what the other’s saying and enjoying the conversation in real time. Now that we have looked at what might be keeping your partner from opening up, let’s talk about how you can invite your partner into emotionally vulnerable conversations. Without getting defensive or cranky or defusing it with humor. But listening to and understanding someone’s criticisms is how we grow. And growing together equals greater connection.
The most romantic and timeless way of expressing affection is through love letters. Write a few sentences that express how much you care for your spouse and why they are meaningful to you. Remember that conversational time should be a positive experience, so keep it light and airy. Sharing funny experiences and laughter will make for an even lovelier environment. At times, it’s all too easy to make a laundry list of ways your spouse annoyed you.
Quality Time Together
Most of their conversations are about work, chores, their kid’s activities, and mundane aspects of their stale marriage. Give your undivided attention when your spouse or partner is talking. Look your spouse in the face to show sincerity.
When you become an extension of your partner, you may be sacrificing a part of who you are that they love, and of course, the opposite is also true. Give your partner the support to pursue what lights them up. Sometimes that will mean giving them space to pursue their own interests and trying not to place unnecessary restrictions or exert control based on your own insecurities. You don’t want to limit your ability to really know them and love them for who they are.
Life can get busy, but it’s important to make time for your partner. Plan date nights, go for walks together, or simply spend time talking and reconnecting. This quality time will help you both feel more connected and appreciated.
- Plan a weekend getaway
- Cook a meal together
- Take up a new hobby as a couple
Express Your Love and Appreciation
It’s easy to take your partner for granted, especially when life gets hectic. Take the time to express your love and appreciation for your partner. Send them a heartfelt message, write them a love letter, or simply give them a hug and tell them how much they mean to you.
FAQs
- What if my partner doesn’t want to reconnect?
- How long does it take to reconnect with a partner?
It’s important to respect your partner’s feelings, but also communicate your own desires and needs. Consider seeking couples therapy to work through any issues.
Every relationship is different, so there is no set timeline. Be patient and continue putting in effort to reconnect with your partner.
By following these tips and making an effort to reconnect, you can strengthen your relationship and create a deeper connection with your partner. Remember that relationships require work, but the rewards of a strong and loving partnership are well worth it.
