Successful couples do these 4 things in the morning: 'That little hello goes a long way,' relationship expert says
Specifically, successful couples express empathy and appreciation for one another on a regular basis, Amy Morin, a psychotherapist and author of "13 Things Mentally Strong Couples Don't Do," previously told CNBC Make It. They use phrases like "it's understandable you feel that way" or "let's find a solution."
There are also some habits that successful couples pick up in the morning that can strengthen their relationships as well.
Here's what Morin and sexuality and relationship expert, Sara Nasserzadeh, recommend.
First, there's what Nasserzadeh calls "basic etiquette."
When you see your partner first thing in the morning, basic etiquette is as simple as greeting them. "That little hello in the morning goes a long way," she says. It signals, "I see you. You're alive. I'm alive. I appreciate you."
"You will be amazed how many couples don't do that," she says, but it's a powerful way to fortify that emotional connection.
Nasserzadeh, who is also the author of "Love by Design: 6 Ingredients to Build a Lifetime of Love," recommends doing a small, loving gesture that makes your partner's morning routine a little easier.
"Some couples make coffee for one another," she says. "Some couples put the robe out for the other person." Some couples put out a bowl for the other person's granola or fill up the kettle so they can make tea.
Whatever the gesture, these little actions say, "I go out of my way for you," she says. "I celebrate you today. I acknowledge that you're in this relationship with me."
Successful couples also make time for each other in the morning — even if that means simply having coffee together for a few minutes.
"It's all about just having that connection," says Morin. "And when you have a ritual, it makes sure that you continue to connect on a regular basis." This habit also gives the couple something to look forward to and ensures the relationship has its own unique rituals. And it reinforces that they're prioritizing each other.
It reminds each member of the couple that "even though the day might be stressful or I have a lot to do, I need to make time for this because this is what really matters," she says.
Finally, successful couples include physical affection in their morning routine.
"Just giving your partner a kiss before you leave for work can be really important for your relationship," says Morin. Same goes for a hug. It shows that despite the chaos of the morning, you're still prioritizing this one moment you can share together.
The chemical effects of this kind of interaction have also long been documented. "We know that those feel good hormones [like oxytocin] can be released when you show physical affection to each other," she says, "which then enforces your bond and makes you want to grow closer together."
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