Ways to Connect with Your Partner this Fall Season
Fall is here and with that, comes many things: school starting up again; cooler temperatures; Christmas paraphernalia and decorations sprouting up at your local markets and drug stores (already!?). And, with the hustle and bustle of shuttling children off to events, work going full-speed, it can be difficult to find opportunities to connect more with your partner. The good news is that won't have to bend over backwards just to squeeze in some time for intimacy with your special someone. Along with the crazy and hectic, fall brings with it, a wealth of chances to cozy up. While there are Thanksgiving dinners, and while football season means fun times and tailgating, it'll be important for you and your sweetie to carve out some time just for the two of you. To do that, think of all the nostalgia that fall brings. Take a moment to think of all the things you look forward to during this time of year. Now, make it a point to enjoy these things with your love. Fall is actually quite a romantic season!
Okay, so maybe it's a little premature for Christmas stuff, but one thing we can't ignore is all of the seasonal fall things popping up at our coffee shops, restaurants, and Trader Joe's. The ubiquity of pumpkin this and spice that can be a little overwhelming, but if you're like me, you're looking forward to grabbing that maple pecan latte or diving into that first bite of caramel apple pie. Traditional fall foods can be a great way to connect. Savoring pumpkin spiced latte together or grabbing a reservation and tasting that new fall menu at your favorite restaurant can make for great dates.
With your bellies full and satisfied, why not take a walk together? Now that the extreme summer heat is fading (or starting to), walks in the park are a great way to get some exercise and to connect. If you live somewhere where the trees have color-changing leaves, take some time to marvel at the beauty of nature together. As November hits, and things get even cooler, bundle up in that soft, warm, and snuggly sweater, and take that leisurely stroll, arm in arm. Not only will the crisp, cool air be refreshing, it'll also be a nice excuse to hug and cuddle while you get your steps in. Those with little ones can also consider going to pumpkin patches or apple picking at one of those family-friendly farms that open to the public. Tractor rides, corn mazes, and fruit picking are perfect bonding activities.
You're probably not going Trick-or-Treating, but who says you can't still dress up? If you're heading out to a Halloween party, why not plan a couple-themed costume? You can be the peanut butter to your sweetheart's jelly! At the very least, going costume shopping together can be a fun date as you get to have a personal fashion show (of sorts) with each other. Not a fan of playing dress up? Perhaps you're a movie fan. With the days growing shorter and the nights getting longer, many enjoy the spookier side of this season by watching scary movies. Cuddle close, grab the popcorn, a warm blanket, and you have the recipe for a fantastic night in. Too squeamish for all that gore? Put the knife in your hand and carve some pumpkins together!
As you can see, whatever it is that you most love about fall can be turned into great opportunities for growing closer to your special someone. So, as we bid farewell to another summer and look ahead to the ending of another year, grab a mug of spiced cider, put on those fluffy clothes, and head on out to adventure!
Writer Bio: Dr. Annie Hsueh, Ph.D. is a licensed clinical psychologist (PSY25708) in the Los Angeles area. She has dedicated her career towards helping couples develop more joy and connection in their relationships. She is based in Torrance, CA and sees clients throughout California via secure online therapy platforms.
Image Disclaimer: Stock photos used. Posed by models.