What does your partner need most when he or she comes to you with a stressful situation? Read More about “The Stress Reducing Conversation”…
Some of the conventional wisdom about what causes affairs and how to repair relationships are assumptions or myths. Some of the statistical facts in regards to infidelity are surprising and thought-provoking. While some of the myths lead to judgments and are very hurtful for the affected couple, the facts help us to be compassionate with ourselves and others in a situation of betrayal. Read More about “Affairs PART 1 – Assumptions Versus Facts”…
PSYCH-K® and Shadow Energetics are energy psychology techniques which allow us to effectively shift our beliefs at a subconscious level. Shadow Energetics also works with our emotions and shadow traits to become whole and more heart centred by being able to accept ourselves and others unconditionally. Read More about “What is PSYCH-K® and Shadow Energetics©?”…
What myths have we been conditioned to believe about love and relationships? Read More about “10 Relationship Myths We Are Conditioned to Believe”…
One in five Canadians has a mood or anxiety disorder. Anxiety is especially on the rise among children and teens. What can we do to cope with uncertainty and lessen anxiety? Read More about “Hello, Old Pal Anxiety!”…
While a woman consciously wants a baby, her subconscious might be preventing her from getting pregnant. Studies indicate that psychological and emotional blocks are the root of many infertility issues. What issues, fears, beliefs and emotions can prevent conception? Read More about “Infertility – Issues, Fears and Emotions That Prevent Conception”…
The challenge for modern couples lies in reconciling the need for safety and predictability that a marriage or long-term committed partnership provides, without losing the sexual desire that was present in the early stages of falling in love.
On April 23, Dr. Sue Johnson, the founder of Emotionally Focus Therapy, sadly passed away. She had an essential influence on couples therapy. One of her key findings for secure attachment is the bonding conversation. That is an interaction where one person can open up, reach for the other person, and share vulnerabilities, needs and fears in a way that pulls the other person close. Most fights are not about the content of the fight (money, parenting, housework, sex, etc.) but about feeling unheard, unseen, and disconnected. Our human biology is wired for connection. Here is how a bonding conversation looks.
Dealing with the expectations and dynamics of extended family gatherings can create tension and requires patience, creativity, compassion and clarity how to balance everybody’s needs. The more solid our relationships are, the easier we can navigate challenging times. Do you wish some of your relationships were less stressful, deeper, more harmonious or enjoyable? Read how Michele has completely changed her relationship with her mother-in-law and other family members.
Kissing plays a role in selecting a potential mate. It also fosters attachment in your long-term relationship or marriage. Here is how to kiss to foster intimacy and strengthen your bond. And what about hugging, cuddling and sleeping together?
When you ask women what qualities they seek when dating, “a good sense of humour” ranks high. Studies show that women, are romantically more attracted to people who make them laugh. Why is humour such an attractive quality when seeking a mate? How does the ability to laugh with each other not only help to navigate marriage and family life but also contributes significantly to our physical and mental health?
Emotional connections are the glue that ties us to others and holds our relationships together. Sharing and receiving emotions is the fuel that keeps our love relationships going. A romantic relationship rests upon the vulnerable emotional connections we allow. When we have learned to be emotionally avoidant, we cut ourselves off from what makes life full and joyful.
Stan Tatkin has coined the term “wave” for tendencies generally described as an anxious ambivalent attachment style. While an “islandish” person fears loss of self and loss of their independence, the “wave” develops a fear of losing the relationship. Their fear is of being rejected, left or abandoned. They worry that they are too much or too needy. Like a wave coming in and going out, they go back and forth between wanting to connect and fearing rejection. That often comes from a parenting style where the parent was loving at times and preoccupied at other times.
I had the honour of officiating the wedding of two very dear clients and an opportunity to share some thoughts about marriage.
Relationships can be tricky at times. When we go through stressful periods, it is enormously helpful to have specific agreements to figure out a challenge as a team. Agreements that both people commit to, increase the strength and longevity of a relationship.
Are you going through one of the big life changes, like loss of a loved one, separation or divorce, loss of a job or home, moving, getting married or having a new baby? Here are 5 tips to keep our stress levels down and give our brain and our body time to adjust when major life changing events happen.
Can you talk openly and comfortably with your partner about money? Our attitudes towards money are often based in our childhood experiences and the money beliefs we have learned. It starts with understanding what motivates you and your partner to save and spend. Then you can work towards changing any limiting financial beliefs or limiting emotional connections to be able to work towards the same goals.
Having conflicts or disagreements does not indicate that a relationship is in trouble. What is essential is to address disagreements consciously and communicate well with each other when we have a dispute. Here are 8 agreements to set up with your partner regarding a fair fight.