Shares Couples Therapist Shivani Sadhoo
In today’s fast-paced world relationships are often pushed to the sidelines. The demands of work, technology, and other commitments can easily overshadow the need for meaningful connections with our loved ones. However, try to devote just 5 to 6 hours a week which can work wonders in deepening the bond between you and your partner. India’s eminent marriage counselor Shivani Misri Sadhoo tells us how:
How to devote quality time to enhance your relationship?
Shivani Sadhoo says, some of the things you need to do are:
1. The Art of Appreciation
In the hustle and bustle of everyday life, it’s easy to forget to express gratitude for the small things. Spend some quality time with your partner to acknowledge their efforts and qualities. Take turns sharing what you appreciate about each other. It could be as simple as thanking them for preparing a meal or admiring their kindness. This practice fosters a sense of validation and reinforces your connection.
2. Planning Date Nights
Who said date nights had to be extravagant? Plan a cozy date night in the comfort of your own space. Cook your favorite meal together, grab a blanket, and binge-watch a series you both love. The key is to create an environment that encourages open conversation and shared experiences. Remember, it’s not about where you are, but who you’re with.
3. Intimacy
Physical touch is a powerful way to express love. Spend time cuddling, holding hands, or simply hugging. Physical intimacy nurtures emotional closeness, reminding you both of the comfort and safety you find in each other’s arms.
4. Dream Together
To foster a sense of unity, dedicate time to discuss your shared goals and dreams. This could be anything from planning a vacation to envisioning your future together. Aligning your aspirations strengthens your partnership and gives you a sense of direction as a team.
5. Have Fun Together
Incorporate some fun into your relationship by engaging in playful activities together. Whether it’s a board game night, cooking a new recipe, or going for a nature walk, shared experiences create lasting memories. Playfulness adds a spark of spontaneity, reminding you both of the joy that brought you together.
6. Talk to Each Other
Meaningful conversations are the heartbeat of any relationship. Set aside time to talk without distractions, discussing your dreams, fears, and aspirations. Use open-ended questions to delve deeper into each other’s thoughts and feelings. Listening attentively shows that you genuinely care about their thoughts, nurturing emotional intimacy.
7. Disconnect to Reconnect
In a world entranced by screens, genuine connections can slip through our fingers. Allocate precious pockets of technology-free time to be fully present with your loved ones. Put devices aside and immerse yourselves in each other’s company. Rediscover the art of conversation, the magic of eye contact, and the warmth of shared moments. By disconnecting, you’ll authentically reconnect, nourishing your relationship’s core with undivided attention and care.
8. Lend them your ear
Being a compassionate listener can work wonders. Set aside time to actively listen to your partner’s thoughts and feelings without judgment. It’s not about offering solutions but creating a safe space for them to express themselves.
9. Be Kind to Each Other
Small gestures can have a big impact. Whether it’s leaving a sweet note, surprising your partner with their favorite treat, or offering a soothing massage after a tiring day, these acts of kindness cultivate an atmosphere of appreciation and warmth.
10. Sweet Goodbyes
Before saying goodbye in the morning, happy couples try to know something about their partner’s day. It could be a project at work, a new recipe they want to try, meeting a friend, or going for a walk. The idea is to ask and learn about good and not-so-good things that will happen during their day. This helps them connect better and show they care.
Remember, it’s not the quantity but the quality of time you invest in those matters. In a world where seconds count, dedicating these few hours to your relationship can make a world of difference.
Shivani Misri Sadhoo is an internationally recommended relationship Counsellor by world’s biggest and most trusted study and research-based foundation for couples therapy – Gottman Institute. She is trained on specialised key relationship counselling Skills from AIIMS, VIMHANS and various other reputed institutions. Counselor Shivani Misri Sadhoo, is also Certified for Emotionally Focused Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Dialectical Behaviour Therapy.
Counsellor Shivani Misri Sadhoo is also a Certified Neuro Linguistic Practitioner with specialised training and experience in the field of affairs/betrayals, trust issues, difficulty communicating, conflicting values, bereavement, grief and loss (affairs, separation, divorce, childhood) and emotional health issue (anxiety, social anxiety, fear, depression, low mood).
Currently, Shivani Misri Sadhoo is one of the top counsellors with the HIGHEST Success Rate with over 17,000 happy couples and individuals (based in India and abroad), who has benefited from her therapy. Psychologist and Counselor Shivani Misri Sadhoo not only practice independently from her clinic in Greater Kailash, Delhi, India but also listed on the panel of eminent hospitals like IBS Hospital – Institute of Brain & Spine, Express Clinic, Fortis (formerly) based in Delhi.
