Strengthen Your Relationship with 3 Weekly Meetings

Healthy relationships do not happen by chance. They require intentionality and consistent effort. How we spend our time, money, energy, and resources sends a clear message about what we value most. When it comes to relationships, prioritizing your partner(s) through regular, meaningful interactions builds a stronger connection and deeper attachment. One effective way to do this is by scheduling three specific weekly meetings designed to nurture your relationship.

These meetings focus on different aspects of connection: physical closeness (Nurture), joyful interaction (Play), and practical organization (Structure). Together, they create a balanced rhythm that supports intimacy, trust, and teamwork.

Nurture Meeting: Prioritize Healthy Touch and Emotional Sharing

Physical touch is a powerful way to communicate love and care. The Nurture Meeting is a dedicated time each week to engage in healthy touch with your partner(s). Experts suggest setting aside at least 30 minutes for this meeting.

Before you begin, have an open conversation about what each of you enjoys and needs. This might include holding hands, hugging, cuddling, or gentle massages. Sharing your desires and boundaries helps create a safe and comfortable space for both partners.

Why Healthy Touch Matters

• Releases oxytocin, the bonding hormone

• Reduces stress and promotes relaxation

• Enhances feelings of safety and connection

  
  

How to Make the Most of Your Nurture Meeting

• Choose a quiet, comfortable space free from distractions

• Communicate openly about what feels good and what doesn’t

• Be present and attentive to your partner’s responses

• Use this time to also express emotional needs and appreciation

  
  

By regularly dedicating time to nurture your physical and emotional bond, you reinforce your commitment and deepen your attachment.

Play Meeting: Connect Through Laughter and Fun

Laughter and shared enjoyment build trust and intimacy. The Play Meeting is your weekly date night or day, where you set aside time to connect through fun activities. Whether you go out or stay in, the goal is to enjoy each other’s company without distractions.

The Role of Play in Relationships

• Builds trust through shared positive experiences

• Relieves tension and stress

• Encourages spontaneity and creativity in your connection

  
  

Ideas for Your Play Meeting

• Cook a new recipe together at home

• Take a walk or hike in nature

• Play board games or do a puzzle

• Watch a comedy or attend a live show

• Try a new hobby or class as a couple

  
  

The key is to laugh, relax, and enjoy the moment. This meeting strengthens your emotional bond and reminds you why you enjoy being together.

Couple enjoying a playful moment during their weekly meeting

Structure Meeting: Organize Your Week Together

Relationships thrive when partners work as a team. The Structure Meeting is a weekly “business meeting” where you plan your upcoming week together. This meeting helps you coordinate responsibilities and support each other’s needs.

What to Discuss During Your Structure Meeting

• Household chores: Who will do the dishes, laundry, or cleaning?

• Meal planning and cooking schedules

• Bill payments and financial responsibilities

• Upcoming appointments, events, or commitments

• Any challenges or needs that require attention

  
  

Tips for Effective Structure Meetings

• Schedule the meeting on the same day and time each week to build a routine

• Share openly what you need, want, and can offer

• Listen actively and negotiate fairly

• Keep the tone positive and solution-focused

  
  

By organizing your week together, you reduce stress and misunderstandings. This meeting shows that your relationship is a priority and that you are committed to supporting each other.

Best Practices for All Meetings

• Consistency matters: Try to hold each meeting at the same time every week. This builds trust and signals that your relationship is important.

• Reschedule missed meetings promptly: If you miss a meeting, don’t wait until next week. Reschedule within the same week to avoid letting your connection lapse.

• Eliminate distractions: Put away phones, turn off the TV, and focus fully on each other during meetings.

• Communicate openly: Share your feelings, needs, and appreciation honestly and kindly.

  
  
  
  

Final Thoughts

Building a strong relationship takes more than good intentions. It requires clear priorities and deliberate actions. By committing to these three weekly meetings—Nurture, Play, and Structure—you create a balanced approach that nurtures your physical connection, emotional joy, and practical teamwork.

Start by choosing days and times that work for both of you. Discuss what each meeting means and how you want to approach it. Over time, these meetings will become a natural and cherished part of your relationship, helping you grow closer and more connected.

Make your relationship a priority today by scheduling your first Healthy Relationship Meeting. Your bond will thank you.

Phillip Bass, MDiv, ThM, MA, NCLCMHC, NCC,

Licensed Qualified Supervisor