Movement Control Order extended. You will be spending time with the same group of people for the following days. Your stress levels are high during lockdown and this can easily bring out your worst self.
Not to mention if you or your partner are dealing with job loss, unpaid leave or pay cut.
Scroll down for some useful tips for you to ensure your relationship survives this lockdown.
Tips 1: Spend some alone time
Not just for bathroom breaks, we all need some alone time without any distractions from your partners. Talk about this with your partner and coordinate the timing so each of you has your own "Me-time". Take your alone time to recharge yourself and remain relaxed.
Tips 2: Communicate better
We all know that communication is important in any relationship. But when you are together with your partner 24/7, good communication is even more vital. Listen more, value and stand in the shoes of your partner. Your feelings are never wrong, so do your partner or spouse. Learn to communicate better and improve the way you both communicate. You can maintain a good relationship during this period by responding more thoughtfully and improve your tolerance.
If you want something, just ask for it directly. If you need some support, ask your partner to talk. If you need some help for house chores, ask from your partner to lend a helping hand.
Tips 3: Exercise regularly
Exercise and physical activity release endorphins which act as natural painkillers and reduce stress. Exercising regularly can have a positive effect on your mood by relieving the anxiety, anger and tension that you accumulated during this lockdown. Try to get some fresh air wherever possible can have the same effect too.
Tips 4: Practice appreciation
"Thank you for the dinner you cooked" - Express gratitude can make your partner feel appreciated.
None of us is born to be perfect partners. Thank your partner for any help and support that has been given. As challenging as the time being, there is also a lot to be grateful for. You will notice yourself noticing more little moments to appreciate if you express more gratitude.
Tips 5: Check in with each other every day
It is useful to ask your partner questions like: "How is your day?" "How can I help you to go through this?"
Listen to your partner and their experience with caring attention. These daily check-ins allow for a feeling of connection which can sustain your relationship.
It is time to support and develop new understanding towards each other. After all, you are creating stories that you can share with your next generations on how you and your partners responded during this pandemic.
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