A loving relationship takes commitment and often, hard work, to weather life’s storms. Aside from the stresses of modern life, couples also face challenges such as communication breakdowns. Fortunately, it is possible to regain that connection and trust in romantic relationships.
Here are 7 simple yet powerful ways couples are rebuilding emotional connection and trust.
1. Rebuilding Physical Intimacy
Physical intimacy is central to romance and connection. Therefore, creating more opportunities for physical intimacy is one of the best ways to strengthen romantic relationships.
This does not have to be sex, although that is certainly part of rebuilding intimacy. It can also be any non-verbal communication that uses touch to convey affection, such as holding hands or embracing. Gestures like these speak louder than words in healing emotional bonds.
2. Open and Honest Communication
According to the Gottman Institute, trust is one of the most important pillars of a sound relationship house. Open and honest communication is essential to relationship trust building. This is why so many of the couples therapy programs available today center around communication.
But you can start practicing better communication with your long-term partner or spouse today. Here are our three tips:
- Before starting a conversation with an accusatory statement such as “you always (XYZ)”, state how their behavior makes you feel. For example, replace “you never help with cooking and cleaning” with “I feel overwhelmed when I have to do all the cooking and cleaning alone.” This subtle change communicates your frustrations without anger.
- Communication is not just about talking, it’s about listening, too. Practice active listening. Give your partner your undivided attention when they are talking. Don’t interrupt them and complete their sentences. You may think you know what they are going to say. But wait for them to finish speaking and show them that their opinions matter.
- Practice positive reinforcement by using your words to show appreciation for behaviours you enjoy. Do you want to encourage your partner to make more effort around the house? Say things like “ I appreciate that you got dinner started when I ran late from work”. This will show them the positive results that being helpful to you can bring.
3. Attending Couples Therapy
Sometimes marital or relationship problems need expert help. Recognize the severity of the situation and get the help you need to get things back on track.
Couples therapy will offer you and your partner professional guidance and a safe space in which to rebuild trust. Don’t feel embarrassed about seeking outside help. Many couples have benefited from the help of an empathetic yet objective counsellor.
Research available options in your area, for example: Couples Therapy in Sacramento, California.
4. Practicing Forgiveness and Letting Go
Has your partner said or done something that hurt you? Forgiveness is crucial for moving forward.
Forgiveness is not just good for the soul, it also boosts mental well-being.
Admittedly, some things are harder to forgive than others, such as an extramarital affair. But it is possible, if you are both committed to healing the rift the infidelity has caused. Marriage counselling is often the best way forward for couples dealing with such issues.
If you and your partner are both religious, you can also speak to your priest, minister, or pastor about this. They usually offer counseling to couples who want to learn how to forgive each other.
5. Setting Shared Goals and Dreams
Many couples have found they can rebuild their connection in relationships through setting shared goals and dreams. Planning a future together — buying a home, starting a family, etc, reinforces connection. And it’s not just these huge decisions of life that count.
Short-term goals like starting a new hobby based on a shared interest or getting fit together are just as useful for reinforcing connection. Getting fitter and healthier together will also help you both stay strong, sharp, and energized at any age.
6. Prioritizing Spending Quality Time Together
Don’t look for the time to do things together. Make the time.
Prioritize spending time together doing something you can both enjoy. There are many ways to strengthen relationships through shared activities.
Go for a picnic in the park, take the dog for a walk together, or go for a long walk along the beach.
Alternatively, take a break from routine and visit a luxury couple’s retreat together.
7. Rebuilding Connection Through Acts of Kindness
There is so much power in even the smallest of daily positive actions. Show your partner that you appreciate them through acts of kindness whenever possible. Help them with household chores without being asked. Pop a note telling them you love them into their packed work lunch.
Do something unexpected, even if it’s a small gesture, and you will start to build that connection again.