The Importance of Date Nights

 

Whether it's a date night or date day, it's important for married couples to take time from their regular day-to-day routine of life, family and responsibilities to set aside and enjoy some time as a couple. There are many great benefits to dating your spouse such as building a stronger marriage; and who doesn't want a stronger, healthier marriage? We for sure want a healthier, stronger marriage, so we make sure to have at least two date nights/days a month. It really doesn't matter if you have a date "night" or "day" the important thing is that you guys are spending time together as a couple. 

Date nights help build your communication. It allows for uninterrupted time to just talk about whatever is on your mind and get to know your spouse a little more. And communication is an essential element of an intimate relationship. According to The Gottman Institute research, "stress-reducing" conversation can help couples stay current with what is moving through their partner's life. 

Date nights create an atmosphere or opportunity for novelty. The desire to grow and change is critical to boosting a couple's level of commitment. When we get into the "same ol' routine" mindset then that can create boredom along with some other things in your marriage. Date nights or days allow you and your spouse to try new things together which not only recharge your romantic chemistry but brings some "freshness" into your marriage. Monday through Friday is probably the same routine so why go to the same place to eat, or do the same activities during your date night too. Switch it up, have fun, be spontaneous and dates nights definitely create that opportunity for novelty.

Date nights can be a "de-stressor". Research has shown that couples that have regular date nights maintain a connection through intimate conversation and emotional support. Let's just be real, life sometimes gets stressful. Having a decent chunk of alone time is one of the best ways to keep your sanity.

There are many other reasons why date nights are so important and necessary for married couples, these are just a few. But take time for your marriage and invest in spending quality time with your spouse. Think back to when you guys first met and how you never wanted to spend one moment away from each other (cue cheesy love music) and take that same passion and desire you had back then and incorporate it into your marriage now. We still believe in dating each other because we vowed 'till death do us part" and that's a long time from now, so we can't afford to be bored with each other. If you value your marriage and it's a priority to you and your spouse then take time for yourselves and go out on a date. 

A Few Date Night Ideas:

 - Walk a nature trail.

- Grab a coffee/tea and stroll around a downtown or town square you've never been before.

- Attend a Paint and Sip event.

- Go to a concert.

- Cook dinner together, light some candles and have a romantic dinner at home.

- Attend a comedy show.

- Spa Day

- Get a couples massage.

- Visit a museum or cultural center.

- See what a neighboring city has to offer.

The possibilities are endless and you don't always have to spend extravagant amounts of money. Just have fun with your spouse.