While doing some research on 2024 dating trends, ChatGPT (it’s not all bad!) mentioned “decompression dating.” I’d never heard of this before, but I’m all for a bit of relaxing self-care. I also think that in today’s society, with its many stressors, decompression is something many of us need.
But how does it apply to dating? What are relaxing dates? How can we incorporate wellness into dating? Read ahead for answers to those questions, plus some tips and links that can make implementing this idea even easier.
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What Is Decompression Dating?
“Decompression dating” is basically what it sounds like: engaging in de-stressing activities on a date. It’s self-care, but make it romantic, dare I say.
ChatGPT defined it like this:
“Recognizing the stresses of modern life, this trend involves dates centered around relaxation and unwinding together. Think spa dates, mindfulness retreats, or simply a quiet evening without electronics, fostering deep connections through shared moments of peace.”
Decompression dating isn’t only for people in established relationships, either. Why not invite your latest Bumble match on a decompression date?
The benefits are wide-reaching, too. We’ll get more into that in a bit, but until then, consider these possibilities and pros:
- You may find new ways to practice self-care after trying a different activity with the person
- Some of these stress-free dates encourage you to get out in nature, perhaps becoming more environmentally aware and self-aware.
- Some of these options can make you feel more connected to the person, according to experts.
- Engaging in self-care with someone else can help with accountability…
- …and is a way to “kill two birds with one stone” in such a busy world.
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The Benefits of Decompression Dating in a Hectic World
But besides all of those possibilities, what are the more direct benefits of decompression dates?
Well, after a busy day spent running errands, working, driving kids around, or doing whatever else you do, you may feel too exhausted for a date night.
That’s where decompression dating comes in. It provides a way for you to connect with someone while also engaging in a de-stressing activity. It can benefit your relationship with yourself and with your partner. A win-win!
According to Dr. Barton Goldsmith, a psychotherapist and author, decompressing with your partner at the end of a long day has many benefits.
For one, it can make future days easier to handle. “If you do this consistently, you may find that your attitude brightens,” he writes for The Seattle Times. “Decompressing at the end of the day helps many people release pent-up anxiety or makes dealing with difficult people or situations less stressful.”
As far as your relationship, he writes that this practice “gives you the reassurance and emotional bonding that will help you keep your relationship moving forward.” (This can be especially helpful and meaningful when you feel your relationship has been put on the backburner!)
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How to Plan a Stress-Free Date Night
Planning a stress-free date night amidst all of your other responsibilities — and your partner’s — may seem impossible.
At the same time, thinking it through and planning can help set you up for success. Here are some considerations:
What day or night is best for you and your partner?
More specifically, it may help to ask questions like these:
- Is your babysitter free for a longer period on some nights than others?
- Do you have an early meeting on Wednesdays, in which you may want to avoid Tuesday nights?
- Is your activity more fit for a day or night date?
- Do certain nights seem to be less busy, or perhaps you can skip what you typically do on a certain night?
How can you ensure the date goes as smoothly as possible?
That might entail:
- Getting a trusted babysitter
- Putting your phone away
- Buying tickets ahead of time
- Setting the date far in advance
- Checking the weather
- Taking some deep breaths if and when you encounter stressors
- Considering what type of decompression date would be most enjoyable and least stressful for you and your partner
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Best Decompression Dating Ideas for Couples
Speaking of decompression dates, here are some options to warm up your brain:
Take a day trip to the beach
A beach day may be just the thing to help you and your partner de-stress. Imagine it: The warm sun on your skin, the pull of the waves, a good book…(BRB, checking out Airbnb right now).
Hop in a hot bath
If your bath has enough space, why not get in it together? Or if it’s too small, you can take turns. Just don’t forget the roses, dim lights, aromatherapy, glass of wine, or whatever else helps you feel all the romantic and relaxing vibes.
Enjoy a candlelit dinner at home
Going out for dinner is great, but it’s not necessarily your best option for every date night. By enjoying a relaxed dinner at home — after cooking with your partner, or one of you cooking for you both — you can just relax without worrying about hefty bills, loud patrons, and frustrating traffic.
(Need recipe ideas? Delish is one of many publications that has you covered!)
Watch a couple’s meditation video together
The power of meditation is real, improving both your mental and physical health. Why not do it with your partner for some more time together? YouTube is full of free meditation videos.
Have a picnic in the park
Yes, this is an excuse to enjoy a charcuterie board! Or whatever else you’re in the mood for. What’s great about picnic food is it can be simple — grabbing subs; throwing together some fruits, cheeses, and cookies; or whatever else works for you.
Plus, you can enjoy the sun’s vitamin D, which helps with immunity, bone health, mental health, and more.
Go on a walk outside
Did you know that exercising with your partner can help you reconnect? Yup!
It doesn’t have to be intense, either. A half-hour walk, therapists say, can increase your joy, decrease feelings of anxiety and depression, and help you feel closer with your partner. Plus, you get those same vitamin D benefits.
Get a couple’s massage
Need I say more?
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Takeaways
Whether it becomes a full-blown trend this year or not, decompression dating is not something to ignore. Its benefits extend to your mental health, your connection with your partner, your physical health, and more. Plus, they’re fun. Self-care with someone you love? Count me in.
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This post was previously published on medium.com.
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Photo credit: Clarisse Meyer on Unsplash