When we build up resentments in a relationship it is common that they will come pouring out in the midst of an argument. You start with a complaint about how they leave their clothes on the floor, they become defensive, …
Tips for Connecting at Dinner Time
I grew up eating my dinner with a tray on my lap in front of the TV watching Neighbours (an Aussie TV show that we LOVED in the UK with Kylie Minogue in it). We were together as a family, …
Rituals for Building Connection
When you are an early bird in a relationship with a night owl, you potentially miss out on many opportunities for connection. You might find less time to talk, less intimacy, less touch, and at worst, you live like friends …
Growing Trust in Your Relationships
Trust is the foundation of any relationship. It is difficult to be truly vulnerable with someone you don’t trust. Trust isn’t built overnight; it takes time. In a relationship, many small moments become the building blocks of trust. It might …
Turning Criticism into a Complaint
If you grew up with a lot of criticism around you, you likely have a loud, critical voice in your head as an adult. Usually, that critical voice is directed inward, but in intimate relations Criticism usually grows out of …
Tips to Become Less Defensive
The four communication styles that have a negative impact on your relationships according to the Gottmans: Everyone will have a favoured method. Mine is defensiveness. Defensiveness is a response to criticism and tends to increase conflict because the other person …
Morning Ritual
Over the last two weeks, I’ve been refining my morning ritual to include more ayurvedic principles. Much of my morning routine has been in place for over five years, but I find I need to adjust it now and again, …
But I had a Stable Home. Why Am I Avoidant In Relationships?
You might have grown up with a roof over your head and three meals a day with your two parents. You might look back at your childhood and think, “Okay, I was alone a lot, and my family weren’t very …