Ever wonder why hundreds of stock photos show happy couples dancing on the beach or in grassy meadows? Could these images be misrepresenting the majority of couples in today's society? Think about it… how often are you and your significant other outside, enjoying the sunrise together or hiking a mountain? If your answer is quite often, good for you! But for the majority of you readers, this is probably not the case. So, why do we like to associate the outdoors with couples and romance when reality points in another direction? Wouldn't a Starbucks date followed by Netflix and cuddling in bed sound more appealing? Well, for those of you who think otherwise, there is an important reasoning for why we connect romance to nature, which will be mapped out in this article through 5 reasons why you and your S.O. should go outside for your next adventure instead of the usual Netflix and chill.

1. You bond over nature

Benoit Gauzere

Whether you go on a nature walk or out on the lake, there is so much to see: tons of flora and fauna surround you in vibrant color and fill your ears with sounds of nature. When you and your S.O. are experiencing this sensual input together, you are able to talk about it. This simplistic form of conversation (expressing the beauty of nature) can be therapeutic to both you and them because you are unknowingly ridding your mind of the daily stress—that midterm coming up, running out of plus dollars to pay for meals, or all of that drama going on between you and your friend Becky. A classic game of I-spy or just syncing in the world around you helps form a deeper appreciation for nature. You and your S.O. can appreciate life outside of dark rooms and restaurants and realize that there is more to enjoy together.

2. You build trust

Felix Russell-Saw

When I go on hiking trips with my boyfriend, we are constantly supporting each other, making sure we both get over big rocks and cross slippery areas without falling. Not only is it a fun, adventurous experience filled with both fear and laughter, but it helps us build trust in each other. If one of us gets hurt, the other pays attention and assists. Gone are the days of reckless behavior which leads to hurt and bad situations; you and your S.O. are there to help each other to have fun together.

3. You are exercising together

Daniel Frank

They say that "couples who work out together stay together;" well, there is some truth to that. Motivating each other is very important in a relationship, whether it concerns academics, finding a job or niche, or running a marathon. Exercising outdoors together can be a wonderful experience, especially when those endorphins are released and eliminating stress, allowing you to be happy and grow closer to your partner.

4. You'll associate the experience with your relationship

Tanja Heffner

Wouldn't you like to think of pretty flowers and lively scenery when thinking about your S.O.? When you spend time outdoors together, this becomes easy! Pulling from the last point about exercising together, those endorphins you felt during and after your workout will remain in your memory when you think back to those precious moments with your S.O., causing you to feel better about your relationship with them. When you have positive experiences to associate with your partner, your relationship will become stronger.

5. You'll become closer through embracing the silence

Amanda Sixsmith

Sometimes, we just need peace and quiet, even in the presence of our loved ones. When you are able to take in your surroundings, reflect on nature, and ease your mind of the craziness of life while with your S.O., you've successfully entered into a new stage of your relationship. There are so many distractions in the world that pull us apart and isolate us as humans—being outdoors without the company of smartphones, TVs, and laptops will foster more communication and allow for growth in any relationship. And communication doesn't necessarily mean speaking—simply showing each other through body language that you are enjoying your time together can have just as great of an impact as conversing.

There you have it; spending time together outdoors can be just as enjoyable and impactful as going out to eat or staying in for the day. You can appreciate life together, build trust in each other, experience positive endorphins which pull you closer and gain a greater satisfaction with your relationship. You will also develop new ways of communicating with each other and have fond memories to carry with you for possibly the rest of your life! No wonder why those couples look so happy in nature stock photos!