health
I'm a psychologist who studies couples: People in the happiest relationships do 5 things on Sundays—that most neglect
Before a new week begins, the happiest couples pause. Mark Travers, a psychologist who studies couples, shares the five simple check-ins help them stay close and emotionally in sync.
TL;DR
- Strong couples focus on small moments and consistent rituals to stay connected.
- A Sunday reset involves five key practices: logistical check-ins, moments of appreciation, emotional debriefs, planning the week ahead, and a conscious reset.
- Logistical check-ins help fine-tune team operations and prevent friction by addressing responsibilities and expectations.
- Expressing gratitude for each other trains the mind to focus on the positive and makes partners feel seen.
- Emotional debriefs allow couples to revisit issues without fear or judgment, preventing small problems from escalating.
- Planning for the week ahead, including shared activities, instills a sense of forward momentum and connection.
- A conscious reset involves identifying and letting go of stress, disappointment, or unmet expectations to move forward with closure.