Article: The beginning of a new relationship can be exciting, but first dates can be awkward, especially if you don’t know your date very well yet. Meeting up for coffee or drinks is an easy way to maintain a relaxed atmosphere while getting to know the other person.  The first few dates you go on can be an important foundation for the rest of your relationship, and making sure the other person is comfortable will increase the odds that they will want to go on more dates. Movies, plays, and other performances may be fun, but they prevent you from getting to know your date. For first dates, try dinner, coffee dates, drinks, or activities like bowling, visiting a museum, or going to a local fair. These allow you to talk and get to know each other, an important basis for a long-lasting relationship. While you should not initiate physical contact that your date is uncomfortable with, light touching around the arms and shoulders can signal interest and enhance attraction. Try sitting next to your date instead of across from them. Gently touch their shoulders as you are talking to them or brush against them if you are walking together.  If the other person draws away or does not return the contact, it is a sign they are uncomfortable with the touch. Do not continue physical contact. Furthermore, this may be a sign of disinterest. While you might be shy around a new date, making eye contact not only boosts attraction but it can make you more memorable to your date. Extended eye contact can even make you feel like you’re in love with someone.   Keep their gaze for several seconds, and remember to blink! If you are looking to call someone the "love of your life," an emotional bond is key.  Rushing the physical side of a relationship does not necessarily prevent an emotional bond, but it can make the emotional landscape more difficult to navigate. Couples that have strong friendships with one another also have higher sexual satisfaction and romance in their relationships
What is a summary of what this article is about?
Keep it casual for the first date. Plan dates that allow you to talk. Touch them in non-sexual ways. Make eye contact. Strive for emotional intimacy.