2020 has proven to be quite the trying year for us all thus far, only adding to our stress more and more by the day. A big contributing factor to that stress is likely the learning curve of adapting to a world spent indoors – trying to figure out how to make our normal joys work within this newfound quarantine life. One such joy that cannot afford to be overlooked is your romantic dating life. The stress of work-from-home all throughout the day can feel exhausting, but in the evening, when you reunite with your partner for some quality alone time, the intimacy and affection can offer you an escape from your troubles for the night! Take care of yourself and your relationship with these 5 awesome at-home date ideas:
1.Game Night
Put a new spin on this classic date night trope and get out some of that quarantine energy with a game night! There are so many two player games you can find to play, like scrabble, most card games, or make it a double date and play games like Pictionary and Charades with friends via video conference. In no mood to compete? Try something with a little more intimacy and teamwork, like a puzzle!
2.Home Spa Treatment
In a time of so much distress, almost everyone stands to benefit from a little relaxation. To get a little R&R, create your own spa day at home with your partner. Enhance the ambiance with candles, put on a plush robe, and enjoy some refreshing champagne and spa snacks. You can even try giving each other a relaxing massage or facial for a really intimate, hands-on experience.
3.Craft your own wine and beer tasting
Skip the trip to Napa and get a taste of your favorite drinks from the comfort of your home with a makeshift tasting date! You and your partner can order blind tasting kits from companies such like In Good Taste or Argaux for some at-home beer and wine testing fun. Many wineries are now also offering complimentary tasting classes via Facebook or Instagram – just make sure you have the corresponding wines to follow along. Don’t forget to whip up a charcuterie board to pair with your selections for the full winery experience.
4.Create your own drive-in theater
Re-define the concept of staying “indoors” with a fun drive-in movie theatre date from the safety of your car! If your town doesn’t have a drive-in, don’t worry – you and your partner can make your own by setting up a sheet or portable screen and projector in your driveway, or even a simple computer or tablet! Top the night off with your favorite wine and movie snack, and enjoy your favorite rom-com; because what could be more romantic than enjoying a beautiful night under a starry sky cuddling up in a car with the person you love?
5.Cook a Meal Together
Cook up some romance by creating a delicious meal together and enjoying it over candlelight. Try a fresh, new recipe, pour a glass of wine, and turn on some music inspired by your cuisine to set the mood. If you’re not necessarily one for cooking usually, meal subscription services like HelloFresh or Home Chef can make the process a walk in the park, and can offer you something exciting and new to try. Tired of the dining room ambiance? Make it a picnic! Spread a blanket in your backyard or at an open park, and catch a summer sunset or make it an early morning sunrise with mimosas and breakfast.
Even with all of these fun date ideas, you can’t be expected to always have the perfect at-home relationship worked out. So, when in doubt, consult a couple’s therapist! Thomas is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Maryland, with over 10 years of experience providing individual and relationship psychotherapy to help individuals and partners develop a better understanding of themselves and others, set personal goals and work toward desired change. For more advice on quarantining together from a certified professional, request a consultation with Thomas today!
