It’s easy to get stuck in a rut, especially if you’ve been with your partner for a while. They know what you like and don’t like, which can make it harder to consider ways to create new memories together. As a licensed couples therapist who provides therapy to couples in North Carolina, I hear many couples share a similar story: “We are in a rut;”. Or, “We love each other, but we feel a little bored;” or “I am comfortable with them, but the spark is missing.”
Likewise, I often get asked the same question: “What can we do to keep our relationship exciting?” Well, I have good news for you! Research shows that variety, newness, and spontaneity can increase relationship satisfaction. Likewise, being intentional in staying connected is key. Read on to learn more about intentional connection, the importance of variety in your relationship, and 10 couples therapist-approved date night ideas for couples in Raleigh, North Carolina!
What Is Intentional Connection?
What do we mean by intentional connection? Simply put, an intentional connection is the act of deliberately setting aside time and energy to connect with your partner. This can take many forms. From date nights to daily check-ins, the key is that it’s done with purpose and intention.
Why is Intentional Connection Important?
So why is intentional connection so important? Well, for starters, it helps build and maintain emotional intimacy. When we intentionally connect with our partners, we’re showing them that they matter to us. That we value our relationship. This can help create a sense of security and trust in the relationship, which is crucial for long-term success. Additionally, an intentional connection can help break down barriers and increase vulnerability, which can lead to deeper emotional connections and a stronger bond between partners. Check out our other blog post to learn more about an intervention I suggest to my clients who are seeking opportunities to enhance daily connectedness with their partners.
Now, I know what you’re thinking, “But doc, my partner and I are so busy, we don’t have time for intentional connection.” I believe that you are busy. I also believe that you want to make this work, or you wouldn’t be reading this article, or showing up to your couples therapy sessions! The truth is, we make time for what’s important to us, and there are creative ways to do so! If your relationship is a priority, then intentional connection needs to be a priority too.
Variety Really Is the Spice of Life – And Relationship Health!
But that’s not all, folx! An intentional connection can also benefit relationships by introducing new experiences and variety. Think about it, when was the last time you and your partner did something new or different together? Trying new things can be exciting and invigorating, and it can also create shared memories and experiences that strengthen the relationship. So, not only does intentional connection help maintain what you already have built together, but it can also help you grow and evolve as a couple.
And the research agrees! Researchers at Stony Brook University found that couples who engaged in novel and exciting activities together reported higher levels of relationship satisfaction. Likewise, researchers in a 2020 study found that pursuing novel activities with a romantic partner was related to high feelings of security (e.g., reliance, trust), in addition to growth (e.g., fun, excitement. So, it’s no surprise that trying new things can benefit your relationship!
Date Night Ideas for Couples in Raleigh, North Carolina
Now, let’s get to the good stuff! There’s no better way to connect intentionally and add some spice to your relationship than by having fun together. That’s why I’m here! As a couple’s therapist specializing in couples in the Raleigh NC area, I’ve got lots of fun date night ideas that’ll keep things exciting for both of you…and maybe even spark some new feelings in the process! Check out some of my favorite date night ideas for couples seeking a romantic outing in Raleigh, North Carolina!
Date Night Ideas in Raleigh, NC
- The Umstead Hotel and Spa – Treat yourself to a luxurious spa day followed by a delicious dinner at the hotel’s signature restaurant, Herons.
- William B. Umstead State Park – Take a hike through the beautiful trails and enjoy a picnic lunch or sunset dinner.
- North Carolina Museum of Art – Stroll through the galleries and gardens while admiring the art and enjoying each other’s company. Is art not your jam? No problem. Visit the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences and explore the wonders of science and nature with your partner.
- Raleigh Beer Garden – Sample from the largest selection of draft beer in the world while enjoying the rooftop view of downtown Raleigh.
- PNC Arena – Cheer on the Carolina Hurricanes or attend a concert or show together.
- The Pit – Get your barbecue fix and enjoy live music on the weekends at this downtown Raleigh hotspot. Afterward, grab a cocktail across the street at Whiskey Kitchen!
- Take a pottery class at Sertoma Arts Center – Get creative and learn a new skill together while making some unique pieces of art.
- Join Offline Raleigh – Join thousands of Raleighites exploring the city’s best restaurants, attending members-only events, getting exclusive perks, and spending more time with friends — all while falling more and more in love with Raleigh, and each other!
- Neuse River Trail – Rent a kayak or paddleboard and explore the scenic Neuse River together.
- Boxcar Bar + Arcade – Play classic arcade games and sip on craft beer at this downtown barcade. Bonus info – also very close to The Pit and Whiskey Kitchen, mentioned earlier!
We hope these ideas have sparked some inspiration for your next date night in Raleigh, North Carolina! Remember, keeping things fresh and fun is an important piece of relationship success!
Reach Out Today for Professional Support From A Couples Therapist in Raleigh, North Carolina!
Connection, date nights, and variety are important. But communication, trust, and values also play a huge role in relationship satisfaction! If you are in search of additional support, reach out today! Our marriage, relationship, and couples therapists in Raleigh, North Carolina have immediate availability. We would be happy to support you! Our team is LGBTQIA+-affirming, neurodiversity-affirming, and trauma-informed. We offer regular couples therapy sessions as well as one-day relationship intensives each month! Don’t hesitate – follow these three simple steps to get started:
Contact us today at (919) 525-1873 or email info@beboldpsychologync.com.
Meet with one of our caring couples therapists
Start seeing positive changes in your relationship!
Other Online Therapy Services We Offer in Raleigh, Chapel Hill, & Throughout North Carolina
At Be Bold Psychology and Consulting, our team of therapists are dedicated to supporting every person regardless of race, size, abilities, religion, sexual orientation, and gender. To help accommodate your mental health needs all of our online therapy services are inclusive and affirming for BIPOC, LGBTQIA+, and neurodivergent clients. In addition to couples counseling, our services include support groups, individual therapy, marriage counseling, and relationship counseling. Other services include EMDR, loss, grief, trauma, or PTSD, anxiety or depression. Check out our blog and FAQs to learn more!
