These Are the 10 Things Happy Couples Regularly Do Together, Experts Say

You likely spend a lot of time with your significant other as is, but how much of that time is actually spent doing things together? When you're both busy, it can be hard to make room for quality time, but carving out space for togetherness is important and helps develop a sense of teamwork. Ultimately, it doesn't really matter what you're doing, so long as the time you're spending in each other's company is really focused on being together.

If you're looking to spend more meaningful time with your partner, we're sharing 10 expert-approved ways to ensure you're doing just that.

Have Date Night

Even if you've been together for years—or even decades—it's important to never stop "dating" or having a special day or night for just the two of you. "There is a lot of research showing it improves relationship satisfaction and sexual satisfaction and lowers divorce," says Paulette Sherman, Psy.D., a psychologist, the director of My Dating & Relationship School, and the author of Dating from the Inside Out. "Plus, it's a great way to have fun, rediscover each other, and get away from everyday responsibilities."

Go to Bed Together at the Same Time

While it's not always possible to go to bed at the same time, it's important to make the effort as often as possible. "One partner may stay up longer reading; however, the act of getting into bed together symbolizes how special and unique their union is," says Jenni Skyler, Ph.D., a licensed marriage and family therapist. "Plus, getting into bed together increases the possibility of having sex, or at least cuddling before dozing off."

Cuddle Daily

If you can't seem to fit in time to cuddle just before bed, try to sneak it in during other times of the day—even if it's just a few minutes. "The shared skin time releases oxytocin, which helps bond two people," says Skyler. "Cuddling also fosters affectionate intimacy so that couples have ways to connect skin-to-skin."

Exercise Together

Whether one of you likes to run or the other enjoys biking, prioritize physical fitness together, says Doug Polster, Ph.D., a licensed clinical psychologist and the COO and head of clinical staff for Center of Psychology. "Take turns choosing the activity and get moving," he says. "Exercise is a great way to reduce stress, and when you do it together, it not only helps you feel better but can serve as another way to connect with your partner."

Eat Meals Together

Depending on your work schedules, it's likely not realistic to have every meal together, but whenever you can, experts suggest making an effort to sit down for breakfast, lunch, or dinner with your partner. "Breaking bread at the end of the day allows for couples to sink into the sacred container of their relationship and reconnect after a long day away from one another," says Skyler. "Sharing a meal means sharing the pleasure of food, and hopefully meaningful conversation for emotional connection."

Schedule Check-Ins

While date nights are fun, they don't always serve as the best time to talk about challenges. "Make sure to schedule a time, perhaps once a month, when both of you agree to sit down, open up, and discuss things such as budgets, kids, or other big decisions," says Polster. "When it is planned ahead, you're more likely to arrive at the conversation open-mindedly and ready to connect—and move forward together."

Get Away Together

Whether it's one night, over the weekend, or a week-long vacation, getting away together—just the two of you—is a great way to recharge your relationship and create positive feelings and memories. "It snaps you out of your daily routine and gives your relationship the refresh it could use," says Ann Mercer, Psy.D., a psychologist and the co-founder of Positive Life Answers.

Kiss Your Partner

Kissing your partner often can work to strengthen your bond. "For anyone who has been in a long-term relationship, you know intimacy can wax and wane," says Polster. "Take the time to kiss your partner, at least first thing in the morning and right before bed, to remind them of how much you care."

Spend Holidays Together

Holidays are special for couples, and experiencing them together affirms the fact that you are a family. "It's an important habit to make time from work and other obligations and to plan family or couple rituals to mark those special occasions together," says Sherman. "This creates times of shared joy and gives you things to look forward to together."

Celebrate the Little Things

You don't have to wait for something big to happen to celebrate your relationship and marriage. Mark your calendar and celebrate your first date, the date you got engaged, and your wedding, says Mercer. Everyday moments, like a promotion or the achievement of a personal goal, should be highlighted, too.