9 unexpected things that will actually keep your relationship healthy
ABC
To hear happy couples tell it, the formula that keeps a relationship thriving often involves listening to your partner more, doing nice things for them, and showing them you support and appreciate them. While these rituals are, of course, important and worthwhile, there are other (less discussed) things that can also keep your relationship healthy. Below, you'll find nine not-so-obvious yet thoroughly effective ways to keep your connection strong.
1. Spend more time apart
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QT together is vital, as is QT apart, which helps to keep things fresh. "By spending at least a few days or evenings a week away from each other, you're guaranteeing that you'll have new and different things to talk about when you're together, which prevents your dynamic from growing stale," says Paige Berger, dating expert with WhatsYourPrice.com. She adds that taking regular space will also help you be more patient with each other — i.e. you're less likely to have a short fuse because the things that irritate you about each other won't constantly grate on you when you allow for some breathing room.
2. Laugh at unexpected situations
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A couple that can laugh together is far likelier stay together, says Heidi McBain, a professional counselor for women. "Things that keep you laughing and having fun are so important to the relationship as a whole," she says. "See a comedy show, watch a funny movie, share silly memes, and goof around together." The ability to lighten up will keep your relationship balanced, since serious moments and challenges are inevitable.
3. Get more sleep — together
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A recent study found that couples who slept fewer than seven hours a night were more likely to have hostile, negative arguments. More sleep can also lead to more sex, says Chris Brantner, Certified Sleep Science Coach at SleepZoo.com. "If you want to increase your libido, get a full seve to eight hours of sleep. Lack of sleep throws your hormones out of whack and decreases testosterone, which is crucial for both male and female sex drive. It's also worth noting that for the healthiest relationship, you should go to bed when your partner goes to bed. Research shows that couples whose sleep patterns are mismatched report more conflict, less time in shared activities, and less sex than those who go to bed together," says Brantner.
See the rest of the story at Business Insider
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