So you met someone new. Sparks are flying and things are going quite smoothly so far, but it’s still too soon to let your guard down and become physically intimate. Or perhaps you’ve been steady with your partner but want to strengthen what you two have together. Fortunately, there are many ways you can develop your relationship with your mate without getting physical … honestly.
Chemistry in the kitchen
The act of cooking is a very creative and experimental one. Instead of going out to dinner with your partner, try cooking a recipe at home together of something you both would enjoy. Not only will you get to discover each other’s food interests a bit better, preparing a meal together can also bring about memories of childhood—like reminiscing about that irresistible pie that Grandma used to make—which can also transition into sharing other life stories. Cooking together can also build cooperation as you divvy up the steps between each other. It’s also just plain fun to do on a Saturday morning while blasting some jams.
Take a drive to nowhere
Getaways, no matter how big or small, will provide plenty of time for you to focus on each other without worrying about work, family, school, client meetings or whatever other obligations that can get in the way of spending quality time together back at home. As you explore a new neighborhood with each other, you’ll create exciting memories, spark new passions and overcome challenges together as a team – like navigating directions back to your B&B while the other watches the luggage.
Get your hands dirty with a DIY project
DIY projects, although attractive at first, can be a bit of a struggle – especially if furniture assembly is involved. Taking on such projects with your partner will help you both see each other’s lows (when you screw the wrong end of the leg to the coffee table) and each other’s highs (when the completed product comes together and looks even better than expected).
Learn French together
Learning something new is always interesting when you’re doing it at your own pace and time. Maybe you always wanted to learn a new language or discover other cultures. Ask your partner if they’d be interested in taking a class with you and practice your newfound skills on each other. Not only will it be entertaining to butcher up pronunciations together, you’ll be able to keep each other accountable, which is essential to any great relationship. Oui oui.
Get sweaty together (literally)
If you’re like me, you dread going to the gym by yourself at times. Here comes Mr. Accountability again. It’s always easier to stay motivated with someone who’s also striving for similar goals. You also get to share with each other the many amazing benefits of working out—less stress, better sleep, and even a better time in the bedroom.
