Psychologist Mark Travers studies couples for a living — and lives the same balancing act with his own partner. Based on both research and real-life practice, he’s identified five weekend habits that the happiest couples prioritize. These aren’t grand gestures or elaborate plans — they’re simple, consistent behaviors that protect connection, reduce stress, and make relationships last.
1) They Disconnect to Reconnect
Couples who spend time together but stay glued to their screens often miss the chance to truly connect. Instead, the happiest couples intentionally carve out moments that are tech-free. Whether it’s a relaxed breakfast, a walk without distractions, or a dinner where phones are out of reach, the key is presence — not perfection.
It’s not about planning an impressive date. It’s about showing up fully — to listen, talk, and just be. That quality of attention is what creates closeness, not the length of the activity or how exciting it looks on social media.
2) They Practice ‘Parallel Play’
Everyone needs personal space — even in a loving relationship. But couples in strong relationships find ways to blend “me time” and “we time.” One of the best ways to do that? Parallel play. It means doing your own thing in the same space — reading, gaming, drawing, journaling — while staying near one another.
This silent togetherness can be just as bonding as conversation. It communicates comfort, respect, and emotional presence, without requiring constant engagement. It’s how partners say: “I’m here with you, even while I’m recharging myself.”
3) They Stick to Rituals
Rituals give relationships rhythm. It doesn’t matter if they’re big or small — it matters that they’re shared. Rituals give couples something to count on. They create a sense of identity and continuity even when life feels chaotic.
It could be something as light as Friday-night takeout and Netflix, or as intentional as a Sunday planning session with a bottle of wine. Happy couples often have their own quirky traditions — and lean on them. These moments become anchors that reinforce the “us” in the relationship.
4) They Schedule Intimacy
Intimacy often takes a hit when weekends fill up with errands, chores, or exhaustion. But rather than letting it fall by the wayside, happy couples make space for it — sometimes by literally putting it on the calendar.
This doesn’t mean sex becomes a chore. It means that couples take the pressure off spontaneity and give intimacy the attention it deserves. When intimacy is scheduled, it removes guesswork and brings anticipation, helping both partners prioritize connection amid the noise of life.
5) They Laugh Intentionally
Couples who laugh together often weather life better together. Playfulness builds resilience, eases tension, and keeps romance alive. Happy couples actively look for fun — even in mundane moments. They joke, tease, dance, challenge each other to board games, or invent silly rituals that no one else would understand.
Laughter is bonding. It reminds partners not to take life — or each other — too seriously. And it helps shift the relationship from duty and logistics back into joy and spontaneity.
The Takeaway
The best weekend habits for couples aren’t about doing more. They’re about doing less — with more intention. By putting down their phones, embracing quiet closeness, holding onto rituals, making time for intimacy, and laughing on purpose, couples create a relationship that feels safe, alive, and deeply connected.
None of these things require a big budget or complicated planning. They just require choosing your partner — over and over again, weekend after weekend.
