How can couples use rituals to enhance their relationship according to Gottman's Method?

Couples can enhance their relationship through rituals by creating shared experiences and traditions, which fosters a sense of connection and belonging. According to Gottman's Method, rituals serve as a framework for couples to create meaning in their relationship. By engaging in shared activities or traditions, couples can strengthen their bond and deepen their emotional connection. These rituals can range from simple everyday practices, like a morning coffee routine together, to more elaborate annual traditions, such as celebrating anniversaries in a special way.

While regularly planning vacations, focusing on individual hobbies, and scheduling meetings to discuss issues might be beneficial in their own ways, they do not inherently emphasize the creation of shared experiences and traditions that build a stronger relational foundation. Individual hobbies, for instance, though valuable for personal growth, do not contribute to shared intimacy in the same way rituals do. Thus, the establishment of shared rituals is a fundamental aspect of solidifying the relationship and enhancing the overall connection between partners.