Back when I first started dating, I remember hearing that activities that get your adrenaline up, like riding roller coasters, create a (sometimes false) “bond” with the person you experienced them with due to increased dopamine levels in the brain.
Those higher levels of dopamine make you feel excited, nervous, like you have butterflies in your stomach, and you just feel good in general. That feeling gets associated with your date (in this case, your significant other), and voila—instant bond.
Creating that bond feels a lot like falling in love. I went on my first roller coaster on my first “real” date before I learned about the effects it could have on a relationship. I was with that guy for five years and he really liked amusement parks, so maybe there’s something to it.
It makes sense to think that trying thrilling activities with your husband could put a spark back in your relationship, and why wouldn’t you want to make the most of those rare parents’ nights out? Activities to try:
- Visiting an amusement park and acting like kids, without the kids, but you have to get on the “scary” rides
- Rock climbing, even at an indoor gym
- Hiking or cycling
- Watching a scary movie
- Dancing the night away (Hopefully this one will work because it’s exhilarating–not because of your husband’s terrifying dance moves.)
Really, it can be anything that makes you feel like you’re pushing your limits, something you’re both kind of afraid to try. Obviously you don’t want to do anything legitimately dangerous, but little thrills can go a long way.
Photo credit: Raphael Goetter
