Dating in the Time of Quarantine: 5 Social Distancing-Approved Date Ideas

It’s been almost 2 months since the state of Illinois went into stay at home order in an attempt to limit the spread of COVID-19 in our community. It has meant no Cubs or White Sox baseball, no street festivals and concerts and, of course, no dine-in restaurants. While we must recognize the financial hardships facing those who work in those industries, it is also okay to ask oneself the question “how am I supposed to continue dating?” 

For years, dates have revolved around going out for dinner, grabbing drinks, going to a game or taking a walk in the park. Should dating be completely put on pause until the shelter-in-place order is over? We don’t think so. Here are a few ways to keep on dating through the quarantine.

Virtual Dinner Date

Grocery stores are still open, so put together some recipes! Decide amongst yourselves which cuisine to prepare and do your best to dazzle your date with your culinary prowess. Having Italian? Make your Zoom virtual background the gondolas in Venice or the Roman Coliseum. Get creative, show off your fun side and make the best of it all while eating some yummy, homemade food. Don’t want to leave the house to go grocery shop? Support a local small business for delivery and do the same date.

Netflix Party

Can’t Netflix and Chill? Try Netflix and Chat. One of our favorite new Google Chrome extensions, TeleParty, allows you to sync up your Netflix with your friends and watch the same movie or show in real time. Use the chat room feature to discuss the show or anything you want. If you want a more personal touch, FaceTime on the side so it feels like you’re together. Just don’t forget the snacks!

Erotic Fiction Story Time

Ready to turn up the heat a little bit in the relationship? Find some erotic fiction and read it together over Zoom by sharing your screen. Take turns reading aloud the dialogue and let the subject matter get you feeling some type of way. We recommend Lit Erotica for all your online erotica needs.

Surprise Window Visit

As long as you are wearing a face mask and keeping a 6 foot social distance from others, taking a walk on a nice day is allowed and often encouraged. To surprise the person you are dating, find time to drop by their home and let them know you’re outside. For partners desperately looking to see each other in person, a simple window-to-sidewalk conversation can be a nice moment while also keeping proper social distance.

Online Concert

Concert dates are one of our go-to’s and we couldn’t imagine being in the dating stage and not having live music to experience together. Find a concert online or check out one of the many artists streaming concerts during this time to watch together. No matter where you are physically, being together in an experience is the most important part of establishing a connection with someone new.

These are just a few of our favorite activities for those newly dating during the time of social distancing. Do you have any favorite virtual date ideas? Follow us on instagram and let us know!

What Conversations Should You Have With Your Partner, Even If Communication Isn’t Your Strong Suit?

In healthy, fulfilling relationships, communication is key. The ability to openly discuss thoughts, fears, desires, and needs with your partner can be the difference between mere attraction and deep, lasting intimacy. But let’s be honest—communication isn’t everyone’s strong suit. So, what can you do if talking about feelings doesn’t come naturally to you? Here are four essential “check-in” conversations you can have with your partner to strengthen your connection, even if communication isn’t your thing.

Essential Conversations to Strengthen Your Relationship

1. "I have been working on ________ lately, how has that been going?"

We all have personal or professional goals we strive to achieve, and relationship goals are no different. Whether you’ve been trying to be more patient, prioritize quality time, or improve your listening skills, it’s important to check in with your partner about your progress. Ask them if they’ve noticed any changes and whether those efforts are contributing to your relationship goals. This conversation not only shows your commitment to growth but also opens the door for valuable feedback.

2. "What do you need from me?"

It’s a simple question, but it’s often one of the hardest to ask. It can also be challenging for your partner to articulate their needs, so creating a safe space for this conversation is crucial. By asking this question, you’re inviting your partner to express what they need from you—something you might not have considered. If you want to be a better partner, this is the question to ask.

3. "I really feel most connected to you when __________."

Is there an activity or moment that makes you feel particularly close to your partner? Whether it’s cooking together, taking walks, or simply having a deep conversation, let them know. Remember, no one is a mind reader. By clearly communicating what makes you feel connected, you’re giving your partner a roadmap to fostering that closeness, which can deepen your bond.

4. "I really need space when __________."

While togetherness is important, so is having space. We all need alone time now and then, and it’s crucial to communicate this to your partner. Letting your partner know when you need space helps set clear boundaries and reduces the chances of misunderstandings. By being open about your need for alone time, you create a healthier, more balanced relationship.

Why Are These Conversations Important for Your Relationship?

These four conversations may seem simple, but they are powerful tools for improving communication and building a stronger connection with your partner. By regularly checking in with each other on these topics, you create an environment of openness and mutual respect. So, even if communication isn’t your strong suit, these questions can help you and your partner navigate your relationship more effectively.

These are just a few of our favorite questions and topics to discuss with your partner in order to strengthen communication. Comment below and let us know which are your favorite conversations and check out our instagram for more information about relationship and sexual wellness!

Combating Boredom As A "Quaran-team"

Let’s talk about the elephant in the room here, folks. Social distancing is, for the most part, boring. There are only so many times you can clean your bathroom and sitting inside watching television or reading sometimes feels unfulfilling, especially as Spring begins to slowly creep in. For those of you who are quaran-teaming up with a partner, dynamics within the relationship can change drastically too by the monotony. There are, however, ways to change that.

Challenge Your Mind And Each Other

Puzzles are totally in right now, and for great reason. Staring at a screen all day can cause tension headaches and is not the most mentally engaging activity. However, puzzles encourage teamwork, creativity, organization and can give partners a sense of mutual accomplishment. Remember how proud your partner made you when they put together that IKEA coffee table. Just wait until you help them put together 1,000 pieces to make the Taj Mahal. Don’t have a puzzle at home? Create a personalized one here.

Have a Fancy Dinner with a Private Chef

Ever felt like getting creative in the kitchen but didn’t have the time to prep and conceptualize the meal? Well, now you do. Find a recipe you will both enjoy and invest the time into perfecting it. Try to use ingredients you already have in the house (for social distancing purposes) and if you need to head to the grocery store, wear a mask and wash your hands. A candlelit dinner at home, with no imminent distractions and the feeling of knowing you created something special is well worth all the dishes to clean in the end. 

Start Planning Your Dream Home

Thinking about the future right now may seem scary, especially financially. But, hey, now is a great time to talk to your partner about what your preferences are in your dream home, and, even begin building it with virtual programs. This activity will allow you to flush out differences, discover similarities and give you something to look forward to when this crisis is one day behind us. 

Foster a Pet

I cannot emphasize enough, only foster an animal if you truly want to and believe you can supply it the attention and care it needs. If you can, this would be a great time to do it. Most couples’ biggest obstacle when it comes to bringing in a new furry friend is not being home enough to care for their pet and train it. With everyone home, this is a great time to see what it would be like to be a pet owner and, if you’re ready, adopt one full-time. Besides, you have way more reasons to enjoy the outside when you’re walking around with a four legged cutie (if a pup is your thing). Chicago readers, visit one of our favorite local adoption centers.

TLDR

Mostly, if you’re quarantining with your partner, take this time to support each other and listen. Uncertainty can be paralyzing for many people, and it’s important to help one another through as much as we can. This is a time to connect, a time to nurture vulnerability, a time to explore intellectually, and a time to spend valuable time with your loved ones you may not have had in the past. But don’t be afraid to have some fun too!