By Mary S. Park
Do you know how to break-up proof your relationship during the time of COVID-19? My interview with People Magazine shows you 8 things you can do right now to offset the stress and recharge your loving connection. Journalist Mary S. Park writes,
“Even the healthiest partnerships have been challenged by the stress caused by COVID-19; the combination of working from home, being unable to access our normal ways to blow off steam and very little separation from one’s partner (turns out, absence really does make the heart grow fonder) all have had an impact on couples’ relationship happiness.
Susan Winter, a relationship expert and author of Allowing Magnificence, shares several tips to keep the peace and come out on the other side stronger.
Laugh Whenever Possible
“We live in uncertain times. Our many concerns can easily dampen our mood,” Winter says. “Try to find the place of laughter again. Having a sense of humor and allowing yourself to play, and to look for joy, is absolutely essential for the relationship.”
Keep Appearances Up
While your home is doing quadruple duty as an office, a gym, and a classroom, it can be tempting to make the same pair of sweats work for all four “locations.” That’s why something as simple as getting dressed up for each other in the house can speak volumes.
“Being sequestered and having limited social contact has allowed many of us to get off our game in terms of appearance,” the author says. “We are all visual creatures. Attending to the factors that create visual attraction are vital in long-standing relationships.”
Reinvigorate Your Relationship by Committing to Each Other
Clue your partner in to the steps you’re trying to take to break-up proof your relationship, and invite them to take part too. Try to find something new that you both enjoy to help break up the monotony of couch-bound Netflix nights.
“Long-standing relationships need to be reinvigorated by adding in new elements of surprise, wonder, and discovery,” Winter says. “This keeps the relationship fresh and growing … New input stimulates the mind and creates stronger connections within the partnership.”
