Do you like to roller skating?

How about hiking?

Maybe consider taking cooking classes or release that inner artist by painting.

You could be on to something and discovering one of the secrets to keeping love alive.

When couples try new things together, it helps prevent relationship boredom and complaining. In fact, new experiences tap into the brain’s reward system, flooding it with powerful chemicals that boost pleasure and bonding.

Novelty is good for relationships and makes people happy.

But that novelty needs to be SHARED by you as a couple in order to get this relationship benefit.

So here is what I suggest. Think about what your partner likes to do. Could you be a part of that? For example, my husband was an avid soccer playing and fan. I was not, but when we married, I figured I should get into the sport and share his passion. Going to see professional soccer and watching our campus team are fun and  activities we can share together. I, on the other hand, being raised in the north, loved to snow ski. My husband, raised in the tropics, had no clue. But he strapped on a pair of skis and gave it the college try. And while he wasn’t skiing the black diamond runs, I gave him lots of praise for joining me in an activity that I really loved. And that is another important point–give your partner praise for joining in and trying your interest or passion.

So think about each others passions and give the interests a try. The novelty will bring you closer together. Maybe there is something you both want to do that you have never tried. That too would get the brain chemicals flowing in a positive direction.

Want to keep love alive? Do something new together and explore your interests!