When was the last time you felt outrageous joy with your partner? Take a moment to picture it in your mind, breathe it in, and let a playful smile wash over your face. If you were to describe how you felt with your partner in that moment, I would image the word “connected” would come up. 

Why? Because connection sparks joy! When we feel connected to the person with whom we share experiences with, it not only brings us closer together, but fills us with all the beautiful emotions that oftentimes get push aside in our day-to-day lives.

Are you ready to feel that joyful connection with your partner?
Here are 5 tips to facilitate an evening of true connection and, ultimately, a whole lot of joy.

Be Open to Them
Body language is a very powerful tool for connection. When working to connect with your partner, be aware of your own body and what it’s saying to them. Find a comfortable way to sit facing each other — on the floor or on a bed cross-legged or in chairs. The important thing is that your bodies are physically open to each other ready to invite in connection.

Ask Questions
How often do we spend time with our partners but never really get to know the person they are in that moment? Ask each other questions, from deep, personal questions to their likes, dislikes and opinions and everything in between — not shying away from the uncomfortable topics either. Even if you’ve known the person for a long time, I would bet some of their answers will surprise you! But you won’t know unless you ask.

And Then Actually Listen to the Answers
Along with asking questions is to truly listen to the answers with an open heart. This is not an opening for a debate or the opportunity to problem-solve; you’re simply taking in the conversation with your full presence. Make eye contact, focus on what they’re saying free from distractions, and lock away the answers in your mind for safe keeping.

Create a Safe Space
This is the responsibility of both partners to show up with a mutual understanding that they are entering into a safe space. Partners can feel hesitant to share the truth of themselves because they’re afraid of the perceived consequences, judgements or ridicule. So set the boundary ahead of time that they are safe and free of negativity.

Be the Initiator
This one can be tough, but so often we wait for others to connect with us because we’re scared of rejection. To create the opportunity for connection, we need to get over this fear and take the initiative to reach out. Tell your partner what you need and then invite them to join you for this opportunity.