Therapist suggests busy couples go on ‘micro-dates’ to keep spark alive

By Lydia Patrick via SWNS

A therapist suggests busy couples should go on "micro-dates" - 10 minutes together without distraction - to keep their relationship on track.

Chris Cambas 57, and his wife, Lori, 56, are both couples counselors and practice micro-dating - at least 10 minutes of face-to-face interaction a day, free of outside distractions.

The therapist explained the micro-date doesn't have to be an extravagant affair - and could be eating breakfast together or a cuddle in the morning.

According to Chris, micro-dating is a key element of sustaining a healthy relationship and keeping the spark alive.

Chris, from Tampa, Fla., said: "Everyone is super busy. The world comes at us with the speed of light.

"When we have children, it's a lot.

"Micro-dates are small moments in the day a couple can connect - whether it's cooking breakfast together in the morning or having a FaceTime on your lunch break.

"You should block outside interferences - your phone, kids, bosses and friends - to share a small moment together."

According to the marriage therapist, the optimal time for a micro-date is between 10 and 15 minutes.

He recalled having to make an effort to prioritize his marriage while his son, Austin, 24, was growing up, by using the technique.

He said: "When our son was young we still managed to find times for ourselves, even if it was just 10 or 15 minutes sat on the porch together.

He added: "It's just about intentional moments together - it's not about blowing up someone's phone all day.

You can take micro-dating any way you want to.

"You could even hook up in a hotel on your lunch break."

Lori and Chris have launched a free micro-date challenge on their website.