It’s no secret that having kids changes your marriage. Before baby, it was just the two of you and date nights could happen really whenever you decided. Making time for one another probably wasn’t something you actively had to work towards. As parents to a 3- and 2-year-old, my husband and I are currently living this struggle. And while we do schedule date nights, those probably happen once a month — honestly, even then, it’s sometimes hard to get it together when life is pulling you in 10 different directions.
I recently connected with Rhonda Richards-Smith, psychotherapist and relationship expert, plus wife and momma, to get some ideas that you can incorporate into your day-to-day to help your marriage thrive!
1. Cook Together
Preparing a meal with your partner can be an incredible bonding experience. Find a new recipe that fits both of your taste buds, prep the ingredients, and see what the two of you are able to create together.
2. Talk About Your Goals
Instead of zoning out in front of the television, set aside regularly scheduled time to check in about your goals. It’s easy to get into a daily routine that does not take into account your hopes, dreams, and goals for yourself and your family. Sharing these thoughts and ideas with one another can strengthen your connection and allow you to support one another in new and exciting ways.
3. Get Sweaty
Hitting the gym, taking a class, or going on a hike with your partner is as great way to do something for yourself and each other. And while exercise gives our bodies an amazing boost, our minds benefit as well. During a workout, your body will release endorphins, which improve our moods and how we engage with others.
4. Conversation Starters
As parents, our days can often be incredibly draining and take a toll on our capacity to maintain interesting and engaging conversations at the end of the day. Consider investing in a boxed set of conversation starters to prompt more engaging discussions each night before bed. Adopting this ritual can be lots of fun as topics can range from politics to sex.
Ravelle Worthington is a wife, momma of three, and the founder of Mommy Brain. Follow her on Instagram here.
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