Mix It Up
If you and your partner are clever enough to commit to a regular date night, take note of this: couples who engage together in novel experiences have been found to enjoy an enhanced sense of well-being compared to couples attached to their tried and true
Research conducted by psychologist Arthur Aron, PhD, and reported in The New York Times (February 12, 2008), reveals that new experiences trigger the release of norepinephrine and dopamine, two brain chemicals that stimulate feelings of pleasure (and are responsible for the "high" that folks enjoy as part of the early stages of romantic love).
When pleasure-generating experiences are shared with your spouse, your relationship can enjoy a real satisfaction boost.
You're thinking, We're lucky to have date night at all — who has time to get creative?
Here are some ideas to stimulate your imagination:
- Venture to a nearby suburb (take the train) and discover the neighborhood dive.
- Try a one-shot class in tie-dye, tango or baking a triple chocolate cake.
- Camp out in your backyard with starlight, Mad Libs and s'mores.
- Comb through a craft store for ingredients to create a giant birthday card for your son or daughter.
- Tour downtown Chicago by Segway, tandem bike or double-decker bus.
- Indulge in a progressive dinner, with each course at a new and different restaurant.
Grab your partner's hand and go! Summer's a perfect time for novelty.