As a couples psychologist, I’ve spent years witnessing the beautiful yet delicate dance that relationships can be. But something that often gets overlooked is how weekend time can truly make or break the bond between partners. What do the happiest couples do with those precious days off that many forget? Here are five simple but powerful habits they share.
Making quality time count without digital distractions
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It’s no secret that scrolling on phones side by side doesn’t build real connection. Even when couples spend hours together, texts, emails, and social media can easily pull them apart, breaking the intimacy they crave. On the other hand, even a short period spent without digital distractions can change everything.
What truly matters isn’t planning grand outings or jam-packing your weekend schedule but being genuinely present for each other. Whether it’s sharing a quiet coffee, taking a slow walk in comfortable silence, or savoring a simple dinner with a good bottle of wine, leaving phones aside sends a clear message: “You are my priority, not the endless digital world.”
That small act feels like a tender declaration of affection—one that speaks louder than words.
Finding balance with togetherness and personal space
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After a hectic week, it’s natural to crave some alone time. But striking a healthy balance between “me time” and “us time” can be tricky. This is where the idea of “parallel play,” inspired by child psychology, becomes a game-changer. Partners engage in their favorite activities side by side without the need for constant conversation.
One might be lost in a book while the other immerses in a video game. Though silent, this shared space offers a comforting presence without pressure. It’s like saying, “I love you, but I also need to care for myself. Let’s do it together.”
This approach has taught me how vital it is to honor individuality within togetherness. It strengthens bonds instead of wearing them thin.
Building rituals and embracing laughter for lasting joy
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Rituals are the backbone of a strong relationship. Anticipating familiar, shared moments on the weekend creates a deep sense of security and stability. These routines don’t have to be fancy: making pancakes Sunday morning, playing board games, displaying a weekly plan on the fridge, or sipping wine while chatting about the days ahead all nurture connection.
Sometimes doing less glamorous chores together also reinforces intimacy—it’s the togetherness in all experiences that counts.
Sexual intimacy is another crucial pillar that often gets pushed aside during weekends that turn into back-to-back chores and errands. Scheduling intimate moments doesn’t kill spontaneity; it actually reduces stress. Setting time aside for closeness can be a beautiful way to reconnect, recharge, and dissolve tension.
Perhaps most surprisingly, laughter is the secret ingredient often forgotten. Giggles and playful teasing break through routine and ease tension effortlessly. On weekends, it’s the perfect chance to shed weekday worries and just have fun. Whether it’s a silly quiz with wacky rules or a goofy dance challenge, embracing joy helps recapture the carefree happiness often lost over time.
One weekend, I tried a spontaneous dance-off with my partner—completely ridiculous but genuinely uplifting. It reminded me that joy is always inside reach once we decide to invite it in.
The most remarkable part? You already know what makes your partner smile. Sometimes all it takes is a little more intention—a kind look, a small joke, a shared laugh to lift the mood instantly.
So, what do you think? Which of these habits could breathe new life into your weekend routine? Have you ever felt how a simple change in presence or playfulness transformed your connection? Share your thoughts and stories below—let’s learn from each other’s journey to happier weekends and deeper love.
Wonderful suggestions!
Thank you!
Talk the future, plans ,dreams ,do the work needed , get out of bed ,and live the plan and dream ,one by one ,smile.
The sex is important
I mean is it though. I’m too tired to have sex. And 2 little kids. How do people find the time
Although the tiredness may set in from family and parent responsibilities can take a toll. The lack of physical contact (sex) can produce resentment in some individuals. Especially if there is low communication. Maybe a different perspective, if you are feeling tired, have sex anyway, you’ll feel good during and after even if you are tired. At least you will feel good while you feel tired.
Yes exactly, like I just said.. especially as a woman it’s simple to bend over the bed. Take 5 minutes if that’s all you can do. And agreed especially if you grab some lube and a toy you’ll easily get in the mood & you’ll be glad you gave that 5 minutes
Nice work,laughing is so good .great advice to those who see the truth.
Absolutely wonderful suggestions! I’d give u a 10.5 & 5 stars.outstanding!
Going to the park with my partner and her 5 year old son, simply amazing
We have lost all of this . Thanks for sharing this.
Wonderful! I give you ten stars. But, for me, no laughing, no talking, no sex…ever. Just existing. So sad.
Only if you are frugal or good with your finances, auctions are a good date night, Especially for seniors. Also on trips to the beach sitting side by side under an umbrella and watching the surf.
Absolutely true and motivating .
I enjoyed reading this , I will apply a few changes and enjoy our weekends even more , thank you for the enlightenment for couples from all around the world !!
A date night twice a month. Hire that babysitter. But most important put away the dang cell phones and talk to each other.
My significant other and I look forward to Sunday FUNday together every week. Sleeping in, morning coffee, puzzle books on the deck, music inside, listening to the birds outside and then some fantastic loving! We both look forward to our Sunday FUNdays together!
Im sorry, but this is utterly pathetic. If you have to describe what any normally functioning reasonably intelligent human being would commonly recognize as acts of love and intimacy between two sentient individuals, however they wish to define it for themselves, then I painfully realize the human race really is, without exaggeration, a species that has unknowingly already arrived at the tipping point of its extinction.
Its pretty pathetic to think that “any normally functioning reasonably intelligent human being would commonly recognize as acts of love and intimacy between two sentient individuals.” If you honestly believe what you wrote, youre either AI, ragebaiting, a downright awful troll, or just really stupid. Sorry, but the way you worded it makes it painfully obvious.
Y’all saying it’s too hard or not enough time to have sex. As a woman it’s not hard to bend over the bed. Not every time has to be long and amazing. I personally will take 5 minutes to bend over the bed. Even if you don’t want to just grab your lube + a toy then you’ll be in the mood in a few minutes. It’s that simple. Terrible to neglect your spouse’s sexual needs