Researcher Noah Larsen collaborated on a new paper, “Joint Savoring in Romantic Relationships: Correlates and Protective Effects” that looks at the benefits of shared experiences for couples. Photo taken at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign on Wednesday, Feb. 4, 2026. (Photo by Fred Zwicky / University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign)
Couples who dedicate time to savoring pleasurable moments together experience greater happiness, reduced conflicts, and increased confidence in the longevity of their relationships, according to a new study by researchers at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. The study highlights the importance of “savoring,” which involves pausing to appreciate positive experiences.
“Savoring involves slowing down to become aware of and focus on positive experiences,” explained Noah Larsen, the study’s first author and a graduate student at Illinois. “Savoring can occur when we reminisce on a past experience, focus on the present moment, or look ahead to a future experience.”
Exploring Savoring in Relationships
While previous research has underscored the benefits of savoring for individuals, Larsen and his co-authors, Professors Allen W. Barton and Brian G. Ogolsky, sought to examine savoring as a shared activity within romantic partnerships. Participants in the study were drawn from a larger project investigating resilience in romantic relationships.
A nationwide sample of 589 individuals completed an online survey designed to measure how frequently they and their partners engaged in savoring positive experiences together. This was assessed using the Joint Savoring in Romantic Relationships scale, adapted from the Savoring Beliefs Inventory, a tool traditionally used to measure individual savoring.
Survey Insights and Demographics
The survey also evaluated participants’ satisfaction with their relationships, communication conflicts, and confidence in the relationship’s future. Additionally, it measured perceived stress levels, quality of life, general health, and psychological distress.
Of the 589 participants, over 85% were married, about 10% were engaged, and 4% were in committed dating relationships. The average age was approximately 39 years, with slightly more than half being female. Over 85% identified as white, and the average household income ranged from $85,000 to $95,000.
The findings revealed high levels of both individual and joint savoring, alongside low perceived stress levels. “We found that joint savoring has the most benefits for romantic relationships, as well as secondary benefits for individuals’ health and well-being,” Larsen noted.
The Protective Power of Savoring
Among couples experiencing high stress, joint savoring demonstrated protective effects. “When couples face greater stress, savoring can serve as a buffer, helping protect their confidence in their relationship and their mental health,” Larsen stated.
Professor Barton emphasized the significance of identifying factors that offer such buffering effects, noting, “Being able to identify factors that provide this type of buffering effect is important for marriage and romantic relationships, as they provide tangible things that couples can do to keep their relationship strong, even in the midst of heightened levels of stress.”
Practical Strategies for Couples
The research suggests that focusing on positive experiences shared with partners can serve as a strategy for maintaining or enhancing relationships. “We all are busy and have so many things going on in our day-to-day lives,” Larsen remarked. “Finding time – even just once a week – to slow down, be present with your partner and talk about positive experiences in your relationship or focus on something you both enjoy can really benefit you as a couple.”
This might involve reminiscing about a memory from earlier in your relationship, enjoying a dinner together, or discussing an upcoming event that excites both partners. “And if you are going through a stressful time, making time for these conversations can be especially important,” Larsen added.
Implications for Future Research
The study’s findings open avenues for further exploration into how savoring can be effectively integrated into relationship counseling and therapy. By understanding the mechanisms through which savoring influences relationship dynamics, therapists can better assist couples in strengthening their bonds.
As society continues to grapple with stressors from various fronts, the practice of savoring offers a simple yet potent tool for couples seeking to fortify their relationships. The research underscores the timeless wisdom of appreciating the present moment and the shared experiences that enrich our lives.
Moving forward, researchers aim to delve deeper into the cultural and demographic variations in savoring practices, potentially tailoring strategies to diverse populations. The ultimate goal remains clear: fostering enduring, resilient relationships through the art of savoring.
