- By Bornika Das
- Wed, 13 Aug 2025 05:36 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
Three-Hour Night Rule: In today’s fast-paced world, maintaining a strong relationship often seems like a challenge, especially when both partners are constantly juggling work, family and personal responsibilities. The 9-5 jobs are draining individuals as they work tirelessly, come back home by late evening, say hello to their partner, probably watch something on OTT, order in or cook for themselves and then crash to sleep. Although people glorify the hustle culture, they are sometimes failing miserably to keep their relationships strong with their partners. If you’re the one who is struggling to keep the relationship spark alive amidst the busy schedule, the ‘Three-Hour Night’ Rule is the one for you.
What Is The Three-Hour Night Rule?
This relationship trick was popularised by Rachel Higgins and her husband. They decided to curate a new evening routine when they realised that after putting their daughter to bed at around 7 PM, they would typically sit on the sofa and scroll on their phones. To bring back the spark in the relationship, Rachel divided the three hours into three sections.
Explaining on TikTok, Rachel mentioned that she and her husband assigned the first part as the productive hour, where they would spend time together by cleaning the kitchen or doing something that they had put off on hold for a long time. The next hour, they dedicated to keeping their phones down and simply spending time in each other's company. This can range from taking a long shower together or playing a game. The last and final hour, they spend completely by themselves alone. The last hour was for self-love, which might range from reading books, listening to music or doing some skincare routine.
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Thus, in simple words, this ‘Three-Hour Night’ Rule is about dividing the evening hours into segments that include productivity, connection and personal recharge. This relationship trick not only deepens the bonds but also rekindles intimacy.

Three Hour Night Rule Activities In Relationship (Image Credits: Canva)
Activities To Plan In The Three-Hour Night Rule
First Hour - Productivity, Winding Down And Reconnecting
Option 1: Cook a simple meal together or try a new recipe
Option 2: Declutter one shared space like the living room or kitchen.
Option 3: Take a short evening walk to clear your mind before settling in
Option 4: Review household or financial goals over coffee/tea.
Second Hour: Connecting And Bonding
Option 1: Play a board game, card game, or solve a puzzle together
Option 2: Watch a short film, comedy special, or a couple of YouTube videos you both enjoy
Option 3: Do a DIY project, art, or even a small home décor refresh together
Option 4: Share a hobby—photography, dancing, or gardening indoors
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Final Hour: Self Love
Option 1: Choose something light and enjoyable for both.
Option 2: Face masks, massages, or a warm bath together.
Option 3: Sit together with your favourite books and a cup of tea.
Option 4: Share a peaceful moment outdoors before bed.
