Embarking on a journey to mend or deepen intimacy in your marriage is a hopeful and transformative endeavor, particularly for those who may have experienced challenges in their sexual past or within their current relationship. Understanding the complex interplay between hormones and emotional experiences is crucial in this process. Whether your intimacy challenges stem from previous wounds or difficulties within your current relationship, the impact of your past does not have to define your future. Here’s how understanding hormonal influences and addressing past traumas can profoundly impact y ..read more

Elusive Closeness or Meaningful Connections? In the journey of marriage, maintaining emotional closeness and intimacy can often become a challenge, as evidenced by James and Kimberly's story. Married for 16 years and parents to three children, their interactions have dwindled to discussions about daily chores and responsibilities, leaving little room for the passion they once shared. Kimberly's longing for lost intimacy and James's surprise at her feelings highlight a common scenario in long-term relationships. Research affirms the human need for deep, meaningful connections, which bring joy ..read more

Reparenting, particularly self-reparenting, is a transformative concept that has gained traction since its development in the early 1970s. At the heart of reparenting lies the empowering notion that individuals can overcome the limiting beliefs and behaviors instilled in them by their parents' ego states. An ego state refers to a way of being that encompasses thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. When we enter our parent's ego state, we unconsciously mirror their attitudes and actions, often adopting self-critical or negative self-talk that echoes their own. This groundbreaking work suggested tha ..read more

Anger: A Gateway to Uncovering Hidden Emotions In marriage, anger is often just the tip of the emotional iceberg, signaling deeper issues in the relationship. It is a secondary emotion that veils deeper, core feelings. By exploring beneath the surface of anger, we can discover the actual issues at their root, leading to a more complete understanding and resolution. Recognizing the various manifestations of anger is essential in this exploration. These behaviors develop through life experiences and our perspective of them. The Varied Dimensions of Anger 1. Instantaneous Anger: The Immediate Rea ..read more

A Friendly Guide to Navigating the World of Empathy Let's talk about empathy, a magical ingredient in our relationships, particularly in marriage and partnerships. It's not just about what we do; it's deeply about what we feel. Have you ever wondered how to really feel empathy, not just show it? Let's dive into this together. Feeling vs. Showing Empathy: Why the Gap? Ever caught yourself going through the motions of empathy with your spouse, without the heartstrings tugging? It's like acting in a play where you've got the script down, but the emotions aren't quite there. Could it be that we're ..read more

What if I bring up this issue, and it only leads to more tension or misunderstanding? Maybe it's not as big of a deal as it feels. Should I risk an awkward conversation? It's not worth bringing up because they're just going to blow me off anyway. We all face disagreements and misunderstandings. They're just part of life, right? Miscommunication Confusion Recently, a friend shared with me a puzzling situation with an old friend. They'd reconnected over a Bible study, but things got a bit tricky when she received a distressing text from her friend, hinting at being upset about something from an ..read more

What Role Does Resilience Play in Relationships? Defining Resilience in Relationships As Christmas approaches, our minds often turn to decorating the tree, shopping, and preparing for holiday guests. However, it's also a perfect time to consider building a resilient relationship. Whether facing challenges from extended family squabbles, the pressure to get that perfect gift, or the friendly holiday flu, resilience is key to creating a strong, dynamic relationship.  This article will explore how resilient relationships, which thrive on love, patience, and gratitude, stand the test of time ..read more

Self-Awareness: Why it Matters Self-awareness, a fundamental aspect of emotional intelligence, plays a pivotal role in our personal and professional lives. It involves having a clear and accurate understanding of one's personality, including strengths, weaknesses, thoughts, beliefs, motivation, and emotions. This awareness is crucial for personal development, effective communication, and building strong relationships. The Importance of Self-Awareness Control Over Life: Self-awareness is essential for taking control of your life. Understanding your thoughts, emotions, and beliefs allows you to ..read more

Marriage is a divine institution, serving as a canvas upon which God's vision for love, partnership, and spiritual growth is painted. In this exploration, we delve into the intricacies of marital dynamics, seeking to understand how the sacred bond of marriage reflects God's love and intentions for His children. The journey of faith and healing within the marital realm is not only crucial for personal and relational growth but also serves as a testament to the transformative power of God’s love through and in us. The Journey of Personal Faith and Healing Embracing a relationship with God in my ..read more

How to Eliminate Money Arguments in Your Marriage Marital squabbles over finances are as old as money itself. Such disputes, while common, have a profound impact, with research indicating that financial disagreements rank high on the list of divorce causes. Tackling this issue not only promises a healthier bank balance but also a harmonious marital relationship. The Origin of Money Arguments Let's be honest, who hasn't had a disagreement about money? Money, in its essence, is a tool. But its symbolic significance in our lives can lead to emotional responses and arguments. The Impact on Marriag ..read more