“Without respect, relationships are lost, and if someone can’t value your difference, and respect your values and beliefs, then they don’t deserve a front-row seat in your life.” – Riya Raj People have a different opinions about what the word “R_E_S_P_E_C_T” means. Often, it is referred to as the difference between the level of authority, such as with our parents, …
A Relationship is not just about SEX.
“Couples who schedule a time to connect with each other have healthier, happier relationships.” – Chris Kraft, Ph.D. Sex is an integral part of life and overall well-being. Aside from reproduction, sex can be about intimacy and pleasure. It has many health benefits and strengthens the bond between couples. Sex helps initiate a romantic relationship but it is not everything to …
What is the most Toxic Communication Pattern?
Toxic communication patterns have the capacity to cause tremendous damage to our relationships — whether they be with our families, partners, friends, or co-workers — to the point where they can even end the relationship altogether. Collectively studied and labeled as “The Four Horsemen”, by Dr. John Gottman, these negative communication patterns consist of criticism, defensiveness, contempt and stonewalling, and …
Apologizing in a Relationship: Why is it important and how do I do it?
Apologizing isn’t just saying “I’m sorry” it’s also feeling, emotion, and action. Here are some expert tips to keep in your back pocket for the next time you’re apologizing to your partner. Apologizing can be a difficult thing for many people to do; often times it takes setting your pride to the side to admit you were at fault. With …
Premarital Counseling: Why Doing It Is Worth It
You’re engaged to be married, or thinking about getting engaged, and you want to make sure you are set up for success. That is when pre-marital counseling comes in handy. Planning a wedding and the thought of finally getting to live with the love of your life can be very exciting, but marriage means living together permanently. In a world …
How to Tell if You’re “Lucky” in Your Relationship?
How often have you heard that “you are lucky for having found each other” or that “you are so lucky to have found someone that loves you so much”? What does it really mean to be lucky? Is it because we are doing the right things at the right time? When people see a happy couple and one that complements …
Psychological Flexibility: A Key Skill for Relationship Satisfaction
Psychological flexibility is the ability to manage one’s behavior, and make specific concessions regarding one’s individual values, in order to maneuver through the distressing thoughts, feelings, pains or aches, pleasures or fatigues that life frequently presents us with. Studies have indicated that psychological flexibility is an indicator of better mental health, quality of life, and higher symptom reduction. However, it …
Using Love Languages to Celebrate Valentine’s Day
Valentine’s Day is almost here with us again, and many are thinking already how to celebrate it. The most popular presents are chocolates, cards, and flowers. Other people will choose alternative ways like planning for a romantic evening or going on a trip to make their partners feel loved and appreciated. If not on the same page, Valentine’s Day can …
Setting Goals as a Couple for the New Year
A large number of individuals begin the year with excellent goals on things they want to do differently from the previous year. As people all over the world make resolutions regarding their health, finances, and career, you and your partner should also set several goals and ambitions to bring the new year! It does not matter if you have been …
Why Divorce has Skyrocketed in 2020
The year 2020 has been a tough period due to the coronavirus pandemic. Many have experienced financial instability, there have been riots and a very intense election year. Working from home to observe social distancing has become the new norm, and Zoom the medium for personal and professional meetings. In some cases, couples are reporting feeling: “We are in this …