So glad you are here. Friday Five is all about being intentional about our mental health. 5 ideas, questions, tools, and resources to encourage you to lean in, care for yourself and reset.

Back in February, Melissa introduced the 5 Love Languages by Gary Chapman. These languages consist of Words of Affirmation, Physical Touch, Quality Time, Acts of Service, and Receiving Gifts. Today, Melissa is back exploring each of these languages in depth. This week, she’s discussing Quality Time.

Quality Time is described as meaningful, focused and intentional interactions between individuals. It may look different for everyone depending on your relationship’s unique needs and dynamics.

Without further adieu, here are five ways that quality time (or lack thereof) may be affecting your relationships:

1. Enhances Communication. Spending quality time together provides opportunities for effective communication. Quality time provides the opportunity for individuals to express their thoughts, feelings, and concerns openly, leading to better mutual understanding and resolution of conflicts.

2. Demonstrates Intentionality. Being intentional about spending time with a loved one demonstrates that you love and appreciate them. Quality time also provides an opportunity to be creative when thinking about what activities or experiences would mean a lot to share with someone in your life. From planning a special date with a romantic partner, to going on a specially designed solo adventure with your child – planning quality time demonstrates our attention to others’ preferences and interests, and our willingness to do things which excite them.

3. Creates Memories. Quality time often involves engaging in enjoyable activities or meaningful experiences together. These shared memories contribute to a sense of unity and nostalgia within the relationship. These memories of time spent together bond us through emotional connections which become cherished thoughts to remember down the road.

4. Reduces Stress. When was the last time you put down your phone or set aside your work in order to take time to just be with someone else? Engaging in enjoyable activities or simply being present with each other can help alleviate tension and promote relaxation, enhancing overall wellbeing.

5. Deepens Connection. Spending quality time together allows individuals to connect on a deeper level. Engaging in meaningful conversations, sharing experiences, and being present with each other strengthens the bond between people. Quality time is essential for nurturing intimacy in relationships. Whether through physical affection, emotional support, or shared experiences, spending time together helps couples feel closer and more connected.

When we don’t spend enough quality time with those we care about, we become vulnerable to the effects of disconnection: low intimacy, worsened communication, frustration and unfulfilled needs. This week, we encourage you to set aside one hour to connect with those you love. Plan a date, play a game, get a treat together, or start a conversation. We hope you experience the joy of connection, communication and intimacy because of it.

If you feel that speaking with a therapist could help you to improve your relationships, please reach out.

Melissa Mote, RP(Q)

Social Media & Administration Coordinator