COVID-19 has been tough on couples. Whether you have been married for 30 years or are starting a new romance, being in a relationship bubble during the pandemic is a challenge. We are under a lot of stress with work, childcare, and the daily routines we used to take for granted. Anxiety is at an all-time high for some people, which puts an uneasy strain between yourself and your partner.
Although COVID-19 can complicate romances, this pandemic doesn’t have to be devastating to your relationship. In fact, there is a wonderful opportunity to grow closer as a couple. The two of you can lean on each other for emotional support, provide day-to-day stability, and offer reassurance in a time of great uncertainty. Your love for each other can guide you through COVID-19, coming out of this pandemic with an even stronger relationship.
In any successful romance, it takes commitment, patience, and a mutual understanding between both parties. To strengthen the connection with your loved one, check out these seven strategies for maintaining a healthy relationship during COVID-19:
1. Communicate and build trust in your relationship.
Be open about your COVID struggles and share them with your partner. They are going through similar conditions and being available to talk is vital. Communication is so important to a relationship, especially when there is added stress. Don’t let little things build up and don’t assume the other person knows what you are thinking. Address any issues you are having and work through them. Sharing is caring!
2. Take care of each other’s physical and mental health.
COVID-19 has made us more attuned to our physical well-being, as we stay vigilant about combating germs and viruses. At times, it can be overwhelming to tackle the latest health and safety guidelines on your own. Use this opportunity to take care of your loved one and pay attention to their personal needs. Prepare a nutritious meal for them, buy hand sanitizers or face masks for two, and check in regularly to make sure your loved one is feeling okay.
In addition, your mental health is as equally important. Happiness comes from within, and if you don’t feel at peace, you won’t be able to give your partner what they need. Prioritize your mental health, focusing on activities that can relax your mind from the anxieties of COVID-19. Reading, exercise, and meditation are all great disciplines to keep you mentally healthy and balanced.
If you notice your partner has been struggling emotionally during the pandemic, open a dialogue with them and listen with an open mind. Should your loved one need professional support, there are counselling services that will provide great comfort for their mental health.
3. Add some humour to your relationship.
If laughter is the best medicine, then double your dosage! Laughing can trigger the release of endorphins and they are the feel-good chemicals in our bodies. It also reduces stress and builds up the immune system as well. Laughter is one of those easy things to do that will be good for your body and soul.
Of course, the only thing better than laughing is being able to laugh together with your loved one. Use this opportunity to create some happy, humorous memories with your partner in life. You can watch some funny TV shows with your mate, cuddling up together in a loveseat. This is also a great distraction from the constant negative coverage on the news.
You can also tell jokes, share an amusing anecdote, or let your guard down and be your natural hilarious self. Be funny, be spontaneous, and be a little mischievous. Your partner will appreciate your happiness and positive attitude during COVID-19.
4. Have a romantic date night.
Do you miss going out on a date because of the social distancing guidelines? If so, it’s time to get creative and create a special evening indoors! Plan a date night a week in advance and really put some effort into it. Prepare everything together as a couple so there’s full participation and mutual communication.
For date night ideas, you can have a gourmet meal and bring out your fancy dishes. Play some games or set up a projector to watch your favourite movies and concerts. Put out a charcuterie board, pour some wine, and make it a fancy dress-up night. Staying in can be as fun and exciting as your imagination goes.
5. Maintain a healthy physical and emotional intimacy.
Life is busy and it’s hard to carve out time for intimacy in a relationship, even under normal circumstances. Now with COVID-19, we have the added stress and so many restrictions. However, don’t let these circumstances drive the two of you apart. Reach out and stay close on both a physical and emotional level.
There are several ways to be intimate. You can cuddle on the couch or hold hands during a walk. Plan a sexy evening and take it slow. Sex is a healthy part of relationships, so take the time to learn about what you both enjoy under the sheets. Or throw the sheets off and go wild! Your relationship will grow closer because of this sensual connection.
6. Build a budget for the pandemic.
The economy has changed dramatically because of COVID-19. There’s a possibility that you may not be earning as much income as before. Unfortunately, few things in life puts more strain on a relationship than money issues. Even though your finances may change, don’t let this problem escalate and create tension between you. Tackle any financial concerns together as a couple.
Start by setting up a realistic budget together to get you through this pandemic. There are ways you can both contribute to trim a lot of the excesses. Cooking meals at home can be a two-person job. You both can help out and have fun at the same time. Doing free activities like nature walks or outdoor sports can also strengthen your relationship because there are no distractions.
7. Give each other space in this relationship.
Both you and your partner may be working from home during the pandemic, so take this arrangement seriously. Set up a space for each of you where you can work independently. This will set up healthy boundaries, balancing your job with your relationship, and allow you to concentrate on work better.
After work, allow yourself some private time to unwind and relax. There are some couples who feel comfortable spending all their time together, but if that’s not you, then enjoy a few hours by yourself. Try to keep up as much of your old routines as you can. When you come together with your loved one, it will be more exciting to share your unique experiences.