Hi, you're listening to Small Things Often from the Gottman Institute, where we talk you through

research-based tips to help improve your relationships in five minutes or less.

Today's tip is about creating shared meaning through rituals of connection.

The holiday season is upon us.

The time of year to gather with friends and family

and bond together through old traditions and new memories. But there's no better way to

celebrate with your partner than to spend some time creating rituals of connection to keep

the shared meaning in your relationship healthy, alive, and fun. Plus, you'll find that rituals of connection

have long-lasting, widespread dividends. Here are some ideas to inspire you to create rituals and

traditions, to stay connected throughout the year. First, what's your morning routine? How about just

taking 15 minutes to have coffee with your partner?

And connect before you each go off into your day.

It can make all the difference in the world in your relationship.

And don't forget to give your partner a kiss before they head off to work.

Whether that's down the hall or out the door.

And again at the end of their workday.

And not just a quick one on the cheek.

An intentional kiss so they know you mean it.

On the weekend, maybe plan on going out for breakfast every Saturday morning to relax,

talk about anything that happened in the past week and make plans for the week ahead.

Then, if the weather is nice, take a bike ride, or just go for a walk in the park, hand in hand.

Sharing those moments can ignite passion and keep you connected.

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