At Kentlands Psychotherapy, we offer couples therapy in Gaithersburg, MD, so we are familiar with the habits of people in both healthy and unhealthy relationships. When you are having problems in your relationship, you and your partner may find that having a neutral third party with experience in helping couples improve their relationships may help. In the meantime, here are some healthy habits of happy couples:
Showing respect
Showing your partner respects means accepting and valuing them for who they are. Respecting your partner is especially important when you have a disagreement. Do not attack their personal character or belittle them. When you disagree with your partner, respect the fact that you are different people who have different experiences and beliefs. How you approach these situations has long term effects on your relationship.
Creating rituals
Rituals are a great way to bond with anyone. Whether it is going for a walk together every evening or eating breakfast together every morning, setting aside some time each day for each other is beneficial to your relationship. It gives you quality time, facilitates conversation, and gives you something special to bond over. Be sacred about your rituals in order to communicate just how important your partner is to you.
Focusing on the positive
An unfortunate habit that many people fall into is constantly criticizing their partners. No one is perfect, including you. Before speaking ill of your partner, make an effort to say two positive things about them first. If you find yourself at a loss for any positive qualities in your partner, it may be an indication that you are not meant for each other.
Staying in touch throughout the day
These days, everyone is juggling many different plates. When you are very busy, it can be easy to go through a day without even thinking about your partner. However, it is very beneficial to your relationship to make it a habit to just check in with your partner throughout the day. Take a moment to send them a loving text message, or give them a call on your lunch break. Keeping in touch will help keep your relationship strong.
Touching each other daily
Many couples, especially after they have been together for a long time, lose the physical intimacy of their relationships. However, simply hugging each other every morning before leaving for work can have a great impact on your mental health and the intimacy in your relationship. Physical contact releases oxytocin, which is referred to as the “love hormone.” Oxytocin is considered crucial to intimacy and pair bonding, so when you make a point to share physical intimacy in some form every day, you deepen your relationship.
Expressing appreciation
Never take your partner for granted. You can express appreciation for your partner in many ways. For example, something as simple as bringing your partner coffee every morning shows how much you care. Discuss with your partner about what their “love language” is, meaning how they like to express their affection. For some people, physical touch is their love language, so it is best to show your appreciation through a hug or a kiss. Other people prefer love to be communicated through spending quality time together. Discuss what love language you each prefer, and make sure to communicate your appreciation through their preferred language every day.
At Kentlands Psychotherapy, we want to help you have a healthy relationship. Come to us for couples therapy in Gaithersburg, MD today.
