As clinical psychologist Nicole Beurkens, Ph.D., tells mbg, “Giving gifts lets the receiver know you’re thinking about and care for them, which strengthens the emotional bond. This is beneficial in all relationships, but especially where distance is an issue because it’s much easier to feel disconnected over time.”
She adds that it also certainly doesn’t hurt to have gifts around that remind you of them. “Having items your partner has given you in your immediate physical environment provides opportunities to think of them, and to be reminded of your connection with them,” she explains.
(Here’s our full guide for making long-distance relationships work, by the way.)
According to licensed marriage and family therapist Holly Richmond, Ph.D., LMFT, CST, the most important thing to focus on when gifting is the meaning behind it. “Gift-giving can be really special, even if it’s not one of your love languages. The thing people care about is the meaning behind it,” she previously told mbg.
She adds that you definitely don’t need to break the bank to give a meaningful gift. If they’re a words of affirmation type, for example, you could send them a love letter. “The personal aspect of it just really makes us feel seen, heard, validated, and accepted for who we are,” she says.
And of course, you can make your gift-giving even more special by totally surprising them, therapist and relationship expert Ken Page, LCSW, previously recommended to mbg.
Gift cards from Airbnb
ReNew Transit Weekender by Everlane, $85
Bond Touch Bracelets by Bond, $108
Friendship Lamp by Friendship Lamps, $94.99
Pillow Talk by Little Riot, $185
Titan & Cliona Couples Set by KIIROO, $229
Monthly book subscription by Book of the Month, $12.50 to $16.67
Yum Box by Universal Yum, starting at $15
Letters to Open When… by Lea Redmond, $14.95
The And, Couples Addition by The And, $29
Max 2 and Nora Long Distance Set by Lovense, $190
Large photo album by Vienrose, $19.99
Personalized Song Art by witfox, $15.99
Use Your Mouth by Shamyra Howard, $28.99
Personalized Two State Paper Art Print by Canary Road, $20
Custom Quote Long Distance State Mug by Cupology, $21.95
Memory Foam Travel Pillow & Neck Massager with Heat by Comfier, $54.99
Digital countdown timer by AIMILAR, $16.99
Stir Your Tea and Think of Me Spoon by Boston Creative Company, $12.99
Digital frame by Skylight, $159
Love Lingual Card Game by FLUYTCO, $24.95
True Temp Weighted Blanket by Sleep Number, $199
Lovebox for Lovers by Lovebox, $134.99
Monthly self-care box by TheraBox, $34.99
