By Danielle Andrews
What’s the secret to a strong, lasting relationship? While communication, trust, and shared values often top the list, there’s one ingredient that’s often overlooked but just as important—play. Yes, play isn’t just for kids. Couples who laugh, explore, and have fun together tend to create stronger, healthier bonds.
We don’t stop playing because we grow old; we grow old because we stop playing.
George Bernard Shaw
Why Fun and Play Matter in Relationships
Google any list of the traits most sought after by couples and you will find that “sense of humor” will always be in the top five. Because if you can’t laugh with the person your with, then really, what’s the point? When you think back to the early days of your relationship, what stands out? Chances are, there were plenty of shared laughs, lighthearted adventures, and playful moments. Over time, as work, chores, and everyday stress creep in, many couples unintentionally push play to the sidelines.
Here’s why bringing fun back into your relationship is not just essential but transformational:
- It Strengthens Your Emotional Connection
Play stimulates oxytocin (aka the “love hormone”), fostering feelings of warmth, trust, and intimacy. When you engage in fun activities together, you’re creating shared memories and reinforcing your bond on an emotional level.
- It Reduces Stress
Life is stressful, but laughter truly is the best medicine. Studies show that shared laughter and playful interaction can lower cortisol (stress hormone) levels and help couples feel more relaxed around each other.
- It Keeps the Spark Alive
Monotony is a threat to any long-term relationship. Introducing play and novelty prevents your relationship from drifting into a dull routine. When couples try something adventurous or silly together, you’re reigniting the excitement you felt when your relationship was brand new.
Ways to Add Fun and Adventure to Your Relationship
Explore Outdoor Adventures
Spending time outdoors adds adrenaline and spontaneity to your relationship. Plus, the great outdoors naturally lifts your mood. There is no better way to unplug (literally) and reconnect to what really matters.
- Go hiking or camping. Choose a scenic trail to hike together or spend a weekend under the stars.
- Try an adrenaline activity. Think zip-lining, bungee jumping, or even indoor rock climbing. Pushing boundaries together can bond you in unexpected ways!
- Dive into water sports. Whether it’s paddleboarding, kayaking, or snorkeling, activities on the water are invigorating and fun.
Tap into Nostalgia
Reliving childhood favorites together is a great way to spark joy.
- Visit a Mini-Golf Course or Skating Rink. When is the last time you strapped on a pair of roller skates or putted a golf ball into a miniature castle? Get a bit competitive and alot silly and laugh over those missed shots.
- Board games or video games. Dust off your old Monopoly set or try these games for couples recommended by women’s health magazine.
- Visit an amusement park. The thrill of roller coasters and cotton candy is hard to resist! Cling to eachother while visiting the haunted mansion or let them win you a teddy bear while pretending you couldn’t do the same. 😉
Get Creative Together
Creating something together can deepen your bond.
- Attend a class. Whether it’s a cooking class, wine tasting or pottery making, learning something new together can be a bonding experience especially if you have something to bring home for proof!
- Take up DIY projects. Whether it’s redecorating a room or learning how to brew your own beer, it’s a great way to learn more about someone you thought you knew everything about.
- Cook or bake together. Take a class or create your own “family restaurant” and enjoy tasting the final result!
Travel and Try Something New
Switching up your surroundings is a great way to reconnect and break from your everyday routine.
- Be tourists in your town. Spend a day exploring local attractions or hidden gems you’ve never checked out before.
- Plan a spontaneous trip. Even a short getaway can feel like an incredible mini-adventure when shared with your partner. Take the ferry to the city and visit a museum or book a Limo tour to wine country for the day.
Turn Fun into a Regular Habit and Schedule a Weekly Date
To truly feel the benefits, it’s important to make play a regular part of your relationship. Set aside at least one evening a week for play or adventure. It doesn’t matter what you do, as long as you both enjoy it. Treat these moments as sacred—and not to be set aside for other commitments.
Surprise Each Other
Spontaneity keeps things exciting. Plan an unexpected outing or surprise your partner with something you know they would enjoy but would never drag you to. Monster truck rally anyone? Mushroom foraging? You get the idea. Think outside the box.
Build a Relationship Full of Laughter and Adventure
At its core, play is about more than just having fun. It’s a way of saying, “I choose to enjoy life with you.” It’s sharing joy in the little moments and reminding each other that love doesn’t always have to take itself so seriously.
Start small. Go for that hike. Sing that karaoke duet. Plan that spontaneous day trip. Whatever you do, just remember the ultimate goal: to reconnect and rediscover the joy of being with your partner. Now’s the perfect time to shake things up. Which of the ideas above are you excited to try first?
If you’re still looking for that special person to share your life with, our talented matchmakers here at Kelleher International are ready to find the match custom suited for you! Give us a call today!
