

{"id":2405,"date":"2015-10-07T09:06:37","date_gmt":"2015-10-07T09:06:37","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/www.marriage.com\/advice\/?p=2405"},"modified":"2026-02-16T15:53:50","modified_gmt":"2026-02-16T15:53:50","slug":"couples-communication-boosters-top-5-activities-you-must-try","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/advice\/communication\/couples-communication-boosters-top-5-activities-you-must-try\/","title":{"rendered":"15 Powerful Communication Exercises for Couples"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-78132\" src=\"https:\/\/image.marriage.com\/advice\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/01\/make-sure-the-communication-is-clear.jpg\" alt=\"couple sitting and talking\" width=\"804\" height=\"350\"><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Without communication, any relationship will fade.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">We know that a healthy relationship works because of its foundation, including respect, trust, love, and communication.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Communication exercises for couples are essential if you want to understand your partner better. It&rsquo;s one of the key ingredients to having a <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/advice\/relationship\/what-is-the-definition-of-a-healthy-relationship\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">healthy relationship<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Relationship communication exercises can make a big difference in how you communicate. You will have a better understanding and a more harmonious relationship with better communication.&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How-can-couples-build-on-their-communication\"><\/span><b>How can couples build on their communication?<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The first step in taking couple exercises to improve communication is wanting to do it.&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">You need to want it to be able to do it properly. Don&rsquo;t feel pressured or lose hope because you are practicing couple exercises to improve communication.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The truth is, a solid foundation, such as couples communication, is something you work on. Through the years, it either strengthens or declines.&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Read more on how to <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/advice\/communication\/8-tips-to-improve-communication-in-your-relationship\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">improve your communication as a couple<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Why-are-communication-exercises-for-couples-important\"><\/span><b>Why are communication exercises for couples important?<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">&ldquo;My partner and I talk a lot. We&rsquo;re okay.&rdquo;<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">This is one of the most common beliefs of couples, but actual communication is more than just talking to each other.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Sure, they come home, and you ask about their day, prepare meals, and talk about your day, too, but what about your feelings, issues, needs, and the other topics that you rarely talk about?<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">We need to communicate our feelings and needs to a partner. Aside from that, communication is also being receptive to your partner&rsquo;s needs and feelings.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Communication is about listening, talking, and understanding.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">However, it&rsquo;s not always that we can practice good communication with our partners, right?<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">We also need to work together to ensure proper and healthy communication. This is where relationship exercises for couples&rsquo; communication come in.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Knowing the different exercises to improve communication in a relationship is crucial because it helps us:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Address issues within the relationship<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Find the proper approach to fix them and to open up<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Maintain an open communication where we feel comfortable<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Repair or remove<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/advice\/communication\/toxic-communication-patterns\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> toxic communication styles<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> such as <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/opentextbc.ca\/introductiontopsychology\/chapter\/10-1-the-experience-of-emotion\/\" rel=\"nofollow\" target=\"_blank\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">yelling<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and blaming<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Use this as a healthy example for our kids and use it with our family and friends<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Communication exercises for couples can do all that and even more.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How-often-should-you-practice-communication-exercises-as-a-couple\"><\/span><b>How often should you practice communication exercises as a couple?<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">How often should couple exercises for communication be done?<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">This would depend on the people involved, and here&rsquo;s why.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A person&rsquo;s past or childhood plays a crucial role in how they communicate. Some people don&rsquo;t know how to communicate properly and believe they should not voice their concerns.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Some people think yelling, <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.researchgate.net\/publication\/339139621_A_Brief_Study_of_Criticism_and_Its_Forms\" rel=\"nofollow\" target=\"_blank\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">criticism<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, and name-calling are part of communication.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you both understand that you need to work more on your communication style, then couples therapy exercises for communication are preferred.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Communication exercises for couples aim to help people with how they communicate their thoughts and feelings. It also teaches how a person should be sensitive to their words and how they talk and listen to their partners.<\/span><\/p>\n<pre><b><i>Related Reading:<\/i><\/b><a href=\"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/advice\/relationship\/effective-relationship-communication-skills\/\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> 10 Effective Communication Skills in Relationships for Healthy Marriages<\/span><\/i><\/a><\/pre>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"15-powerful-communication-exercises-for-couples\"><\/span><b>15 powerful communication exercises for couples<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Communication activities for married couples are those exercises that couples can do to improve how they converse with one another.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Powerful and assertive communication exercises for couples can go a long way in fostering a <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/advice\/relationship\/lessons-for-a-happy-marriage\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">happy and healthy marriage<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">As these activities occur, communication skills are enhanced, and spouses learn to understand one another.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Of course, words are understood, that is a given, but when communication is<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">improved, spouses learn the meaning behind those words. This includes how their partner feels and why something is being said.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Find the top fifteen communication exercises for couples below and get started with these communication <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/advice\/relationship\/couple-bonding-activities-to-strengthen-the-relationship\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">activities to strengthen your relationship<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Effective-communication-exercises-for-couples\"><\/span><b>Effective communication exercises for couples<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Communication tips for couples aim to re-establish a deep connection. Through these fifteen communication exercises, you will find which one works for you and which ones you can try first.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b>Couple exercise #1: Relaxing fireside chats<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Thanks to former President Franklin D. Roosevelt, this term has been widespread.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Fireside chats are a friendly talk with someone in front of a relaxing fireplace. It symbolizes warmth, openness, and a relaxing atmosphere to talk.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">It&rsquo;s one of the best communication-building activities for couples who want to set aside differences and just focus on the things they love.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Begin strengthening your bond by talking first. Talk about your childhood, favorite food, bucket lists in life, and so much more. Think of it as a &lsquo;safe&rsquo; conversation or a warm-up.<\/span><\/p>\n<pre><b><i>Related Reading:<\/i><\/b> <a href=\"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/advice\/relationship\/trust-building-exercises\/\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The Top 17 Trust-Building Exercises All Couples Should Know<\/span><\/i><\/a><\/pre>\n<h3><b>Couple exercise #2: Share your emotions<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Another one of the communication exercises for couples that spouses must indulge in is sharing their emotions.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">For many, this may not come easily and may take years for the two to share their feelings easily. To encourage and nurture your marriage, go on a couples&rsquo; retreat and express your innermost emotions and vulnerable side to the other.&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">It will help in<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/advice\/relationship\/understand-your-partner\/\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">understanding your partner<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and make the marriage stronger.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Learning and adhering to these couples&rsquo; communication exercises can help couples deal with sensitive issues. Sometimes poor communication does far more than limit your ability to deal with common issues.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Couple communication exercises are your best shot at building and maintaining a great relationship.<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Couple-exercise-3-Communication-is-taking-turns\"><\/span><b>Couple exercise #3: Communication is taking turns<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">One lesson that we need to understand when it comes to effective communication is that we need to take turns. This communication exercises for couples addresses that.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Get a timer and set it for 3-5 minutes, then choose who will go first. Now, start the timer and start talking without the other interrupting.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The partner can&rsquo;t talk because it&rsquo;s not yet their turn. They could use non-verbal signs to show acknowledgment, understanding, and empathy.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">This teaches the couple to <\/span><a href=\"http:\/\/www.scielo.org.mx\/scielo.php?script=sci_arttext&amp;pid=S2007-48322011000200008\" rel=\"nofollow\" target=\"_blank\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">respect<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> their partner&rsquo;s time and listen while waiting for their turn. It also shows respect.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Once the timer goes off, reset it, and it&rsquo;s the other person&rsquo;s turn.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b>Couple exercise #4: Look into each other&rsquo;s eyes<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">We may have seen this with couple communication exercises with the help of a therapist, but you can do it in the comforts of your own home.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Get two chairs and position them facing each other.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Make sure you are in a room without distraction. Ask your partner to sit down; for five minutes, don&rsquo;t talk. Just sit down and face each other and ensure you look into each other&rsquo;s eyes.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The couple is asked to allow their thoughts to work solely on<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/advice\/relationship\/power-of-eye-contact\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> eye contact <\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">alone in those five minutes. No actions and no verbal communication.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Look at your partner. What do you see? What do you feel?<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Relay what you felt, what you saw in your partner&rsquo;s eyes, and what you learned through this experience.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Assertive-communication-exercises-for-couples\"><\/span><b>Assertive communication exercises for couples<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-76344\" src=\"https:\/\/image.marriage.com\/advice\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/04\/Reasons-communication-is-important-in-marriage-3.jpg\" alt=\"couple taking and having coffee together\" width=\"804\" height=\"350\"><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Communication issues weaken the relationship strings.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Couples communication therapy also discusses <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/advice\/communication\/communication-styles-and-maintenance-in-relationships\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">communication style<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. There&rsquo;s aggressive, passive, and what we recommend, assertive.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Relationship communication exercises assist couples in understanding each other&rsquo;s communication styles and developing a stronger, assertive style that will allow both partners to feel respected, valued, and heard.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b>Couple exercise #5: What I like and don&rsquo;t like about you<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Marriage communication exercises for couples aim at enhancing the love connection between couples and <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/advice\/communication\/4-tips-for-improving-communication-in-a-marriage\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">improving marriage communication<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">In this exercise, both partners must resort to a quiet place and list three things they like and dislike about their spouse. Then present the same to your spouse.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">When your partner reads them out, praise them for their qualities and explain why you dislike the other points. Of course, both partners must never be offended and take the feedback nicely.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Be sure to be ready before trying this couple&rsquo;s communication exercises to avoid getting offended or hurt. Again, remember that you aim to work on your communication here.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;\">This particular exercise has been proven to be one of the most<a href=\"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/advice\/communication\/5-easy-and-effective-couples-communication-tips\/\" target=\"_blank\">&nbsp;<\/a><a href=\"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/advice\/communication\/5-easy-and-effective-couples-communication-tips\/\" target=\"_blank\">effective communication activities for couples<\/a>, as it helps in strengthening communication.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b>Couple exercise #6: Use I instead of You<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">&ldquo;You are so lazy! You could start helping with the household chores!&rdquo;<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">When in an argument, we often use words like &ldquo;you,&rdquo; &ldquo;should,&rdquo; and &ldquo;could,&rdquo; but these words lead the other person to feel attacked and would, of course, be defensive towards you.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">This will cause the argument to get bigger, with no one listening to the issue.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Another assertive communication exercise for couples is to change the words you use. This way, your partner would understand that &ldquo;you&rdquo; are not okay and &ldquo;you&rdquo; want to be heard.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Here is an example.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">&ldquo;Honey, I feel ______ when you don&rsquo;t _____. The reason is that _____. I would appreciate it if you would ________.&rdquo;<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n<pre><b><i>Related Reading:<\/i><\/b> <a href=\"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/advice\/relationship\/hidden-challenge-in-every-relationship\/\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">House Chores &ndash; The Hidden Challenge Faced by Every Relationship<\/span><\/i><\/a><\/pre>\n<h3><b>Couple exercise #7: Remember when you said&hellip;<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Relationship communication exercises also make you comfortable with each other. When you&rsquo;ve established this, it would be the best time to try this communication exercise.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">This <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/advice\/communication\/the-key-to-judgment-free-communication-mirroring-validation-and-empathy\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">emphatic communication exercise<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> will ask the couple to list three statements or words used before. Statements that were used in any disagreement before that were hurtful.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Once that is done, you can work together and see if you can reformat how you said it, this time, in a more respectful way.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b>Couple exercise #8: Words are blades that hurt<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Do you still remember the words that your partner said to you that were disrespectful, below the belt, and just rude?<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The couple should create a list and then read it out loud. Then they each have a turn to explain how a single word affected them negatively.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Sometimes, we say words we don&rsquo;t mean because of anger, not knowing how bad these words can be.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Communication-and-trust-building-exercises-for-couples\"><\/span><b>Communication and trust-building exercises for couples<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Trust is another foundation of a healthy relationship. If you have <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/advice\/communication\/healthy-communication-for-couples\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">healthy communication with your partner<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, you will also have a firm foundation of security with each other.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Aside from that, these are fun communication exercises for couples.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b>Couple exercise #9: Trust and listen game<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">One partner creates a fun obstacle course with &ldquo;mines or bombs&rdquo; while the other is being blindfolded.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Using verbal cues, the creator of the obstacle then guides the one blindfolded through the course, making sure they don&rsquo;t step on the &ldquo;bombs.&rdquo;<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Trust, listening skills, and how you communicate will determine your success.<\/span><\/p>\n<pre><b><i>Related Reading:<\/i><\/b> <a href=\"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/advice\/relationship\/7-important-tips-to-build-trust-in-relationships\/\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">15 Ways on How to Build Trust in a Relationship<\/span><\/i><\/a><\/pre>\n<h3><b>Couple exercise #10: Copy me<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Another fun communication exercise for couples that you will love. The goal is to listen to your partner and achieve the same goal.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Sit back-to-back and have the same set and number of building blocks. Then, one should create a structure and instruct the other through words alone. No looking!<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">This builds trust, active listening, and how you use words. Ultimately, work together to achieve the same goal.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b>Couple exercise #11: Lend me a hand<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">This game is another way to work on communication, build trust, and achieve the same goal.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The couple has an arm that is tied behind their backs. Then, both will communicate actions and instructions to get things done.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Tasks could include wearing clothes, fixing a room, tying shoes, etc. It may look like a simple task, but without one arm, it&rsquo;s almost impossible to do it unless you have your partner with you.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b>Couple exercise #12: You, me &amp; our future<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">When you&rsquo;re done with the fun and games, lie in bed and just talk about your plans.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">It could be about having kids, starting a business, or <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/advice\/marriage-preparation\/important-elements-of-marriage\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">getting married<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The goal is to connect. While at it, you could also start a couple&rsquo;s journal. Therapists also tell couples to do this because it keeps them on track. Know what you want with the person you love, and most of all, never forget to stay connected.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Jay Shetty, a famous storyteller, podcaster &amp; former monk, shares another fun game that could also help with your bond and enhance your communication skills.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"YouTube video player\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/9intTmp60qw\" width=\"560\" height=\"315\" frameborder=\"0\" allowfullscreen=\"allowfullscreen\"><\/iframe><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Communication-exercises-for-engaged-couples\"><\/span><strong>Communication exercises for engaged couples<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<h3><b>Couple exercise #13: &ldquo;Use mirroring, validation, and empathy&rdquo;<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Number thirteen of the top 15 communication exercises for couples is structured conversation.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">For this activity, set aside time to talk with your partner and select a topic to talk about.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Once a topic is selected both partners should begin to converse. Rather than communicating as you normally would, create more structure in the dialog by using mirroring, validation, and empathy.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Mirroring is repeating what your spouse said in your own words back to them in a way that expresses curiosity\/interest. Validating in a conversation is conveying understanding.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A simple, &ldquo;I get what you&rsquo;re saying&rdquo; is all that is needed. Lastly, empathy is expressing interest in how your partner feels by saying something like, &ldquo;How does that make you feel?&rdquo;<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">This is one of the best activities to improve communication skills and teach a deep sense of <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/advice\/relationship\/how-to-build-empathy-in-relationships\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">empathy between couples<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b>Couple exercise #14: Play positive language games<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Second on the list of<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/advice\/relationship\/improve-and-enrich-your-relationship\/\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">relationship improvement<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and communication exercises for couples is the positive language game.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Couples communication entails a lot of challenges. Reactive, presumptuous, and accusatory behavior is the ultimate obstacle to improving communication in a relationship.&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">This is one of the powerful communication skills exercises where couples must replace negative language with positive language.&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The next time you are about to say something negative to your partner about their actions or behavior, stop and come up with a more positive way to get your message across.&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">This makes individuals more aware of how they communicate, and it can reverse negative communication patterns.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A person never wants to come across as accusatory or judgmental to the person they<\/span><\/i><a href=\"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/advice\/love\/\"> <i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">love<\/span><\/i><\/a><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Such communication activities for married couples help break the toxic and negative communication habits in a relationship.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b>Couple exercises #15: Go on a trip together<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The most effective and fun communication exercises for couples includes going on a trip together.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Planning and going on a trip is a <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/advice\/therapy\/couples-therapy\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">couple&rsquo;s therapy<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> exercise for improving communication. It is a day or more of alone time in a new and exciting environment.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Communication between couples can become stressful when monotony steps in. Such communication skills activities give the couples the much-needed respite from the everyday rut of routine.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">This activity is so effective because it allows couples to relax and unwind. Getting away does improve communication. When stress is taken out of the equation, amazing things happen. To <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/advice\/communication\/8-tips-to-improve-communication-in-your-relationship\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">build communication in relationships<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, activities that promote stress relief are required.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">This allows partners to focus while conversing and connecting on a deeper level. The process of planning and getting to your destination also presents opportunities to communicate more effectively.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Communication exercises for <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">engaged<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> couples allow room for couples to communicate and operate as a team. Don&rsquo;t spend your time on activities that take you away from communicating with each other.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Instead, focus on exercises or activities during the getaway that put you both in a position to work on positive communication.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">These getaways also serve the dual purpose of <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">communication <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/advice\/relationship\/things-to-do-as-a-couple\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">activities for married couples<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> to help re-establish the connection and mutual trust in the relationship, lost in the throes of everyday routine and responsibilities.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Here are a few more communication techniques for couples<\/b><\/p>\n<ul><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Not talking at the same time as your partner<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and listening to understand and not react<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Don&rsquo;t lose sight of the end goal in mind. <\/span><b>Communicate to build a strong love bond<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and not break it<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Watch your language<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. Refrain from name-calling or repeatedly serving the sins of the past in the present<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Aim to <\/span><b>learn each other&rsquo;s fears, goals, values, and dreams<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> when communicating. Observe and learn more about each other&rsquo;s personalities.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Practice the following relationship exercises for couples&rsquo; communication for resolving unfinished arguments or evaluating how happy your marriage is.&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">active and<\/span><b> uninterrupted listening<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">holding <\/span><b>eye contact<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">extend <\/span><b>hugging and cuddling<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> more often<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">allocating time for <\/span><b>weekly relationship or marriage check-ins<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n<pre><b><i>Also Try:<\/i><\/b> <a href=\"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/quizzes\/marriage-check-up-quiz\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Marriage Check Up Quiz!<\/span><\/i><\/a><\/pre>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"The-takeaway\"><\/span><b>The takeaway<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-76343\" src=\"https:\/\/image.marriage.com\/advice\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/04\/Reasons-communication-is-important-in-marriage-2.jpg\" alt=\"couple holding hands\" width=\"804\" height=\"350\"><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">It can be helpful to read about<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/advice\/communication\/easy-games-that-can-help-fix-bad-communication\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> communication games for couples<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> that can help fix communication issues in a marriage and tips for facilitating<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/advice\/communication\/tips-for-effective-communication-between-couples\/\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">effective communication between couples<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Practicing these communication exercises for couples will enable you to enjoy <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">a new level of understanding and a stronger bond as well.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">For more communication help for couples, it is also advisable to connect with a<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/experts\/therapy-issues\/us\/relationship-issues\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">professional<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> to resolve any deep-seated relationship issues.<\/span><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n","protected":false,"raw":""},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Without communication, any relationship will fade. We know that a healthy relationship works because of its foundation, including respect, trust, love, and communication. Communication exercises for couples are essential if you want to understand your partner better. It&rsquo;s one of the key ingredients to having a healthy relationship.&nbsp; Relationship communication exercises can make a big difference in how you communicate. You will have a better understanding and a more harmonious relationship with better communication.&nbsp; How can couples build on their communication? The first step in taking couple exercises to improve communication is wanting to do it.&nbsp; You need to want <\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1395,"featured_media":78132,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":[],"categories":[11],"tags":[2516],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/advice\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2405"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/advice\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/advice\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/advice\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1395"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/advice\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=2405"}],"version-history":[{"count":25,"href":"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/advice\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2405\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":117074,"href":"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/advice\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2405\/revisions\/117074"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/advice\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/78132"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/advice\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=2405"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/advice\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=2405"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/advice\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=2405"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}