date ideas determined by your love language

Take part in their hobby: The early days of dating with all that new relationship energy feels exciting as you’re still discovering one another. The good news is that learning doesn’t have to end once courtship does. Join your partner in their hobby (gardening, camping or yoga, for instance) and not only will they appreciate your company, but you’ll be surprised by how much you learn about them by immersing yourself in their world.

Take your date outdoors: Some of the best dates aren’t about doing anything at all, they’re centred around simply being. Something as simple as spending time in nature — at the beach, in the bush, or stargazing at the night sky can be an incredibly romantic experience. The purpose is to dedicate time that belongs entirely to the two of you, free from the distractions of technology and to-do lists.

Try a couples massage: A great way to relax together is by unwinding with a blissful, professional treatment. Physical touch in the form of massage brings multi-dimensional benefits to our body, mind and spirit and sharing the experience together introduces a little novelty into your relationship. Contact your local endota spa to see whether they offer couples treatments.

Go to an outdoor cinema: A simple upgrade to your usual Netflix-and-chill routine gives you a chance to get cuddly in a cosy setting. Bring blankets, cushions and snacks and enjoy the comfort of physical closeness, with feel-good chemicals such as dopamine and oxytocin (known as the bonding hormone) released each time you touch.

Leave love notes: Set up a scavenger-hunt-style date with love notes that say something special about your partner with each clue they find. The location of the notes could be places you’ve been together before (triggering nostalgic and heartfelt memories), or places that are meaningful to you which you want to share with them.

Surprise them with tickets somewhere: When it comes to gift-centric date ideas, the point is to choose something thoughtful that you can enjoy together, like tickets to a festival, exhibition, comedy show or even to your local cinema. Making the effort to book something in advance tells them that you’re thinking of them, and the chosen activity reaffirms how well you know them.

The ceremony of self-care: The true meaning of gift giving is about sentiment rather than extravagance. However small, it reminds your other half that they’re loved. Giving the gift of self-care (think: a beautifully curated skincare pack) shows that you’re committed to their wellbeing and gives you the tools to set the scene at home with a DIY spa night.