Relationship · · 3 min read
Couple rituals, the habits that bring you closer
Every couple has its little habits: the first coffee of the weekend, the Sunday walk, the way you say goodnight. These rituals seem ordinary, but researchers find they play a real role.
More than a routine
Research distinguishes routine, what you do out of necessity, from ritual, which carries meaning for those who live it: you look forward to it, you care about it, it says something about "us". A review of fifty years of research on families linked these rituals to greater satisfaction in the couple and a sense of belonging.
Rituals that bring you closer
A study of 150 married couples in Portugal observed that those who gave more meaning to their couple rituals felt closer and rated their relationship as better. The study shows a link, not a cause, but it confirms that these small appointments matter.
Creating your own
A ritual doesn't need to be spectacular, only to be yours. An evening of the week kept free, a way of celebrating your successes, a message every lunchtime, or a moment together that you take turns preparing: that is exactly the idea behind the rhythms you choose in the app.
Sources
- Crespo C., Davide I.N., Costa M.E., Fletcher G.J.O. (2008). Family rituals in married couples: links with attachment, relationship quality, and closeness. Personal Relationships, 15(2), 191–203. doi.org
- Fiese B.H., Tomcho T.J., Douglas M., Josephs K., Poltrock S., Baker T. (2002). A review of 50 years of research on naturally occurring family routines and rituals: cause for celebration? Journal of Family Psychology, 16(4), 381–390. pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
This article is for information only and does not replace professional advice. The studies cited describe links observed in specific groups, without proving a cause.
A rhythm chosen together, surprises in turn, discreet reminders.