Let's make your marriage stronger!

Here are some highly recommended books, exercises, and apps that can help improve

communication, intimacy, and emotional connection in your relationship.

Best Books for Strengthening Marriage

1. "The 5 Love Languages" – Gary Chapman

Explains how people give and receive love differently (Words of Affirmation, Acts of Service, Receiving Gifts, Quality Time, Physical Touch).

Exercise: Both partners take the Love Languages Quiz and discuss

how they can meet each other’s emotional needs.

2. "Hold Me Tight" – Dr. Sue Johnson

Based on Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), this book helps couples create deeper emotional bonds.

Exercise: Try the "Hold Me Tight" Conversations from the book to

express your feelings more openly.

3. "The Seven Principles for Making Marriage Work" – Dr. John Gottman

Based on 40+ years of research, this book provides practical exercises to improve communication, resolve conflicts, and build lasting intimacy.

Exercise: Do the "Love Maps" exercise—ask each other questions about dreams, fears, and goals to strengthen emotional connection.

4. "Mating in Captivity" – Esther Perel

Explores how to keep passion and excitement alive in long-term relationships.

Exercise: Try Perel’s "Erotic Blueprint" discussion—talk about what makes you feel desired and intimate.

5. "Fair Play" – Eve Rodsky

Helps couples fairly divide responsibilities and avoid resentment.

Exercise: Use the "Fair Play" card deck (or list) to discuss and

fairly distribute household and emotional labor.

________________________

Exercises & Activities for Couples

1. Daily Appreciation

Each day, tell your partner one thing you appreciate about them (big or small).

2. 60-Second Hug Rule

Hold a full-minute hug every day—it builds emotional and physical connection.

3. Weekly Relationship Check-In

Discuss what went well, any concerns, and how you can support each other for the week ahead.

4. The "Memory Lane" Activity

Look at old photos or relive a special moment—rekindle the romance by reminiscing.

5. "Would You Rather?" Relationship Edition

Ask fun & deep questions to spark meaningful conversations.

Example: Would you rather go on a surprise adventure or have a relaxing home date?

Best Apps for Couples

1. Paired (iOS, Android)

Daily relationship questions, quizzes, and communication exercises designed by therapists.

2. Lasting (iOS, Android)

A marriage counselling app based on research-backed techniques from Gottman Institute.

3. Love Nudge (iOS, Android)

Helps couples apply The 5 Love Languages in daily life by sending gentle reminders and ideas.

4. Kindu (iOS, Android)

A fun intimacy app for couples—gives romantic and adventurous activity ideas to spice up the relationship.

5. Between (iOS, Android)

A private messaging app for couples with memory-sharing, calendars, and relationship milestones.

________________________________

Would you like a personalized recommendation based on your

relationship goals? You can book your free initial session here: https://www.counselling.ca/booking-and-fees-copy