Strengthening Your Couple Connection 

Welcome to our Marriage War and Peace blog for August! 

As summer winds down and the kids head back to school, it's the perfect time to focus on strengthening the bonds that hold us together as couples.  

This month, we'll explore the meaning of 'leaning in' and how it can fortify a relationship.  

Marriages, like gardens, require consistent care and nurturing to flourish. The concept of 'leaning in' goes beyond physical presence; it embodies emotional support, active engagement, and genuine effort in understanding and valuing your partner.   

With fun activities and practical advice, you'll learn how to deepen your connection and create a sense of unity that defines your Truth in the Name of Love journey. 
 In this month’s article, we’ll focus on: 

• Samantha and Jake’s leaning in story 

• 3 ways to strengthen your couple connection 

• 2 fun couple’s games 

• The Seven Principles for Making Marriage Work 
   

Leaning in: Samantha and Jake’s Story 

At the milestone of their tenth anniversary, Samantha and Jake came to me for a relationship check-up.  

Like many couples, they juggled demanding jobs and the responsibilities of raising two young children, which led to feelings of distance and disconnection. Determined to reconnect, I suggested they embark on a journey of leaning in to strengthen their bond. 

Their first step was setting aside one evening each week for a date night. They tried new restaurants, took long walks, or enjoyed a movie at home without interruptions. These evenings became cherished moments for leaning in to talk and laugh, rekindling the spark that first brought them together. 

To deepen their connection, they started practicing daily gratitude. Every night before bed, they shared three things they appreciated about each other. This simple practice helped them focus on the positive aspects of their relationship and reminded them to lean in on commitment. 

One weekend, they attended my Stop, Drop, and Roll Baby! Bootcamp for couples, which emphasized the importance of communication. The exercises and discussions helped them see their relationship from a new perspective, and they returned home with a renewed sense of unity and purpose. 

By intentionally making time for each other and practicing gratitude, Samantha and Jake’s efforts to lean in and prioritize their relationship brought them closer than ever, strengthening their connection. 

3 Ways to Strengthen Your Couple Connection 
Building and maintaining a strong connection with your husband is essential for a fulfilling relationship. Here are five enjoyable ways to deepen your bond, enhance communication, and create lasting memories together.  
 

1. Daily Check-ins 
    
   Open and honest communication is the cornerstone of a strong marriage. Make it a habit to have daily check-ins with each other. These don't have to be long or formal; just a few minutes to share how your day went, express concerns, or talk about anything on your mind.    

2. Little Acts of Appreciation 
    
   Take time to acknowledge and thank each other for the little things each of you do. Whether it's a note left on the fridge, a heartfelt compliment, or a simple "thank you," these gestures show that you notice and value each other, fostering a positive and loving environment. 
    

3. Be Each Other’s Cheerleader 
    
   Cheer on each other’s growth and development. Whether pursuing a new hobby, advancing in a career, or achieving personal goals, celebrate each other's successes and be a source of motivation and encouragement during challenging times. 

Enjoy strengthening your couple's connection with these engaging and meaningful activities!  

2 Fun Couple’s Games 

If it’s been a while since you and your husband played an adult game together, here are two that are sure to help you lean in. 

1. The 36 Questions to Fall in Love  
    
   This game is based on a study by psychologist Arthur Aron, which suggests that asking and answering 36 progressively personal questions will foster intimacy and deepen your bond. 
    

2. The Couples Game 
    
   This interactive game of fun questions is meant to make you laugh with your partner. It's not a "get to know you" game or overly mushy. It's just good fun. 

Playing these games can be a delightful way to reconnect, learn more about each other, and create lasting memories. Enjoy strengthening your couple's connection with these engaging and meaningful activities! 

Helpful Resources 

If you and your husband want to deepen your connection and intimacy, I recommend The Seven Principles for Making Marriage Work by Dr. John Gottman. This book is grounded in decades of research and offers valuable insights and exercises to help you enhance your relationship.

Share Your Insights

Join the conversation and share the activities you do to strengthen your couple connection. Together, let's create a supportive community where every couple can thrive and grow.