Weather 
Five to thrive.
A relationship therapist is sharing the five things happy couples do on the weekends to keep their relationships rock solid — and some will surprise you.
Amy Morin, who hosts the “Mentally Stronger” podcast, revealed the list in a guest column for CNBC, saying the weekends are a crucial time for a couple to recharge and reconnect.
“It’s a prime opportunity to engage in activities that build deeper bonds,” the expert explained.
Surprisingly, the first of Morin’s recommendations involves spending time apart.
Healthy independence is one of the best ways to build trust,” she stated. “When you pursue your own interests… you’re showing mutual trust.”
One partner may head out for coffee with a friend while the other goes for a run, the relationship guru further described.
“Partners who respect each other’s ‘me time’ are more likely to thrive together over the long haul,” Morin asserted.
In addition to independence, Morin says weekends call for connectivity. Creating small rituals together fuels connection, per the expert.
“The key is consistency,” she says, revealing that the ritual could be as simple as taking a walk together every Sunday afternoon.
“Each time you show up, you remind each other: ‘We can count on this. We can count on each other.’ Trust is built as you show over and over again that the relationship is a priority.”
While some rituals can be quick and easy, meaningful quality time must also be prioritized, with the intention of paying close attention to your partner.
Sharing a phone-free meal or working on a home improvement project together are two such examples.
“What matters is prioritizing and giving each other your undivided attention,” Morin declared, saying these activities were different from simple routines and rituals.
Such quality time provides space to talk about real feelings, which is the fourth essential on Morin’s list.
The weekend provides a space to reflect on the week of highs and lows, with the expert saying the strongest relationships provide space for people to communicate honestly.
“Vulnerability is risky, but with a trusting partner, it can help you grow stronger as individuals and as a couple,” she declared.
The fifth and final thing on the list of Morin’s must-dos for the weekend: showing appreciation for your partner.
“Appreciation fuels goodwill and reminds both partners that their efforts are seen,” the therapist said. “It might sound like, ‘Thank you for refilling my coffee cup,’ or, ‘I’m proud of how you handled that conversation.’
“In my practice, I’ve watched couples transform their dynamic just by making gratitude a regular habit. When people feel valued, they want to give even more to the relationship.”
