The COVID-19 pandemic has shifted the way we move, think, work, and play. There’s no question it has changed the way people interact with each other. So what does this mean for lovers, live-ins, and married folk? The government-enforced quarantines make it nearly impossible to leave the house, but they present an opportunity to get creative. 

This is the perfect time to reinforce healthy habits and increase intimacy while making safety a priority. Because now, more than ever, the world needs love. The reality is, social distancing does not mean emotional disconnection. In our household, date nights are non-negotiable. 

Not only is this a time to have our intimate moments alone, but we’re also able to experience our love without the burden of dealing with everyday stressors. Sure, “Netflix and Chill” is always an option, but it’s time to pivot or run the risk of a stagnant love life. Here are a few tips for dating [at home] during COVID-19:

Related: Top 9 Unique Date Ideas

Living Room Picnic

Put the kids to bed and push the furniture towards the wall. Lay down pillows and blankets, light-up the fireplace or a few candles, let the sounds of your favorite album play in the background, or create your own soundtrack. To top it off, make your favorite meal, but most importantly, use this time to check-in with each other. There’s no time like the present to express what’s on your mind and share what you are grateful for. 

Read a Book Together 

Reading is sexy! Be it a mystery or murder novel or even something of the erotica genre. Select a book you both find interesting and read out loud. Take turns reading pages or chapters, and once you’re done, review for context. Such as, do both of you share the same views? What feelings did this book evoke for the two of you? Did either of you learn something you didn’t know before?

Tik-Tok Challenge 

Believe it or not, it’s not just for the kiddies. Download TikTok and learn the latest dance challenge. Not only will it test your dance moves but your memory and agility too! Don’t take yourself too seriously; laughter is great for the soul, especially during times like this. 

“Netflix and Chill” is always an option, but it’s time to pivot or run the risk of a stagnant love life. 

Make a New Dish

There are plenty of stories about hoarding, but groceries restock daily and stores are open,during this detrimental time. If you can, try to pick up a few extra ingredients to make a delectable dish and to spice things up, have a cook-off. Let the winner pick the dessert or be the dessert. 

Learn a New Language 

It takes 21-days to form a new habit. Since most of the country is currently on lockdown for upwards of three weeks, there is no better time than the present to master something new. To learn a new language, practice or update your skills through apps like Duolingo, FluentU, and Rosetta Stone. 

Massage Therapy 

No need for a professional! Put on your robes, or maybe not, and use the bed in replacement of a massage table. This date requires soft music, dim lights, and body oils. According to licensed massage therapist Rachel Beider, “Couples can experience so many benefits from giving and receiving massages at home, including forming deeper connections both physically and emotionally.”

Related: Rediscovering Our Love Language: How We Leveled Up Our Relationship With Weekly Check-Ins

Don’t forget the necessary precautions for date nights in quarantine must be taken to ensure safety is always the main priority, which means limiting contact with outside parties of 10 or more. I’m personally limiting contact with anyone outside our household except for the occasional grocery store run. Also, unless you’re trying to have a winter baby, enjoy responsibly with approved consent.