Understanding Love and Desire: Insights from Emily Nagoski and Gottman
Love and desire are two complex and elusive, yet integral components of relationships.
Emily Nagoski, a prominent sex educator, author, and researcher, and Dr. John Gottman, a renowned psychologist, researcher, and relationship expert, have devoted their careers to understanding the intricate dynamics between love and desire. Their groundbreaking studies have shed light on the complexities of human sexuality, desire, intimacy, and predictors of relationship success, and lasting love.
Shifting one’s mindset
Mindfulness can be a challenging practice for many individuals, often leading to feelings of doubt and the belief that it may not be suitable for them. I have personally encountered these struggles on my own mindfulness journey. However, I have come to recognize the incredible potential for transformation that arises from shifting our mindset towards more positive thinking.
Rising Strong: Embracing Adversity, Positive Coping, and Personal Growth in the Face of Challenges
When confronted with adversity, our bodies and minds often entertain thoughts of giving up, deeming the challenge or stressor too daunting, and viewing ourselves as not strong, capable, or intelligent enough. Yet, some of our greatest moments in life occur when individuals emerge on the other side of adversity with realizing that it didn't shatter them. Perhaps it even forged them into a stronger version of themselves.
Cultivating a Positive Attitude Amidst Adversities: A Mindful Approach
In the face of life's challenges, maintaining a positive attitude can be a formidable task. The practice of mindfulness, gratitude, exercise, and rest plays a pivotal role in fostering a healthy outlook on life, irrespective of the adversities we encounter. Let's explore these strategies without any promotion of a specific mental climb program.
Mindfulness techniques & sex therapy
Another important aspect of sex therapy is the use of mindfulness techniques. Mindfulness is a type of meditation that involves focusing one's attention on the present moment without judgment. In sex therapy, mindfulness techniques can be used to help individuals and couples become more aware of their bodies and sensations, reduce anxiety and stress related to sex, and increase overall sexual satisfaction.
Sleeping in Separate Bedrooms
Cameron Diaz recently sparked a viral conversation by advocating for couples to consider sleeping in separate bedrooms. While this idea may initially raise eyebrows, the concept has been gaining attention in the realm of relationship dynamics. In this blog post, we'll explore the insights of therapists and relationship experts to shed light on when having separate sleeping quarters might be a positive choice and when it could signal underlying issues in a relationship.
Embracing the Present: Tips for Living in the Moment
During a recent therapy session, my therapist introduced me to a video titled 'Precious Present.' This video, a heartwarming tale of an older man imparting wisdom to a young boy about the actual value of the present moment, was a powerful reminder of the importance of living in the now. As the narrative unfolded, it became evident that the key to happiness lay in embracing the present. This realization struck a chord, prompting deep reflection on our shared tendency to dwell on the past or worry about the future. Too often, our minds race with endless possibilities and potential outcomes, leaving us disconnected from the here and now. We often find ourselves fixated on what we could have said or what we should do next, rather than fully engaging in the present moment. 'Cultivating presence' refers to the practice of being fully aware and engaged in the present moment, without judgment. We know we're not alone in this experience. So then, how can we cultivate presence in our lives, both for ourselves and for those we hold dear?
Finding the Right Therapist: Key Considerations and Warning Signs
As a therapist, I often have friends and family come to me for advice on how to find the right therapist and how to know if their current therapist isn’t the right fit. Therapists are human, and not all humans are made for each other, so it’s important that you find someone who is right for you. Moreover, you should feel comfortable and confident in "breaking up" with your therapist if it’s time to move on.
How to Determine if You Have an Eating Disorder vs. Disordered Eating: Techniques and Tips
Navigating the world of food and body image can be incredibly challenging. You’re not alone: recent statistics reveal that approximately 9% of the global population will experience an eating disorder at some point in their lives. In the U.S. alone, around 30 million people are affected by an eating disorder, and many more struggle with disordered eating behaviors that don’t quite meet the clinical criteria for a full-blown eating disorder. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for seeking the right kind of support. This blog explores the main eating disorders, the concept of disordered eating, and provides practical techniques to manage these challenges, drawing from the expertise of a licensed therapist specializing in this area.
Holistic Approaches to Mental Health: Integrating Nutrition, Exercise, and Alternative Therapies
Recently, I attended a 4-day trauma conference and had the opportunity to take a workshop called Nutrition & Integrative Methods for Trauma. This experience sparked a deeper reflection on how we often overlook the interconnectedness of mental and physical health. While therapy and medication are essential tools in mental health treatment, integrating holistic approaches like nutrition, exercise, and alternative therapies can be transformative for overall well-being. Here’s what I’ve learned and how you can start to integrate holistic approaches into your own healing journey.
Navigating Sociopolitical Tension During the Holidays
As the holidays approach, many of us are feeling the weight of the current sociopolitical climate. With family gatherings coinciding with contentious election cycles, the dinner table can quickly become a source of tension instead of connection. If you’re feeling uneasy about navigating these dynamics, you’re not alone.
8 Steps to Emotional Healing After a Breakup
Navigating through a breakup can be a challenging and emotional journey. Emotional healing is a crucial process that allows individuals to find peace, closure, and ultimately, move forward in a positive way. While it may seem daunting, taking deliberate steps towards healing can help rebuild strength and resilience in the aftermath of a breakup.
Rekindling the Spark: The Role of Couples Therapy in Revitalizing Your Relationship
In a world where relationships face numerous challenges, couples therapy emerges as a beacon of hope, offering a path towards rediscovering love, understanding, and harmony. Through effective communication and professional guidance, couples can navigate through rough waters and reignite the flame that initially brought them together. Join us on a journey through the transformative power of couples therapy and how it can breathe new life into your most cherished relationship.
The Role of Narrative Therapy in Overcoming Life's Challenges
In a world where challenges can feel overwhelming and isolating, the power of narrative therapy shines as a beacon of hope and healing. Through the art of storytelling, individuals can confront their inner struggles, rewrite their narratives, and emerge stronger than ever before. Join us on a journey through the transformative role of narrative therapy in navigating life's toughest moments.
Emotional Trauma and Relationships: How to Heal Together
In the intricate dance of relationships, lurking beneath the surface lies the impact of emotional trauma. The shadow it casts can be profound, affecting the way we connect, communicate, and love. Explore with us as we navigate the depths of emotional wounds and discover the path to healing together.
How Sexual Therapy Can Enhance Your Relationship
Picture this: you and your partner feeling more connected, fulfilled, and satisfied in your relationship. Sexual therapy has the power to transform your intimate bond, creating a deeper understanding and enhancing your emotional and physical connection. Let's delve into the world of sexual therapy and discover how it can bring a new level of intimacy and harmony to your relationship.
Celebrity Endorsements Shine Light on EMDR Therapy's Healing Potential
In recent years, there has been a notable shift in Hollywood towards addressing mental health more openly. Apple TV’s “Ted Lasso” and “Shrinking” help reflect a broader societal movement towards destigmatizing mental health by portraying characters grappling with various mental health challenges in relatable, authentic ways. This societal shift is not only happening on the screen but off of it as well, with more celebrities openly discussing mental health struggles they have faced and the help they have sought to overcome those challenges. One therapy method in particular has recently taken the spotlight: EMDR (Eye Movement and Desensitization and Reprocessing) therapy.
EMDR's Transformative Reach in Mental Health Recovery
While EMDR (Eye Movement and Desensitization and Reprocessing) therapy is widely recognized for its effectiveness in treating post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), its applications extend far beyond this singular condition. Research and clinical practice have demonstrated the efficacy of EMDR in addressing a diverse array of mental health challenges, including anxiety, depression, addiction, and chronic pain.
why exercise should be prescribed for mental health
In today's fast-paced world, the importance of maintaining both physical and mental health cannot be overstated. While the benefits of exercise for physical well-being are well-documented, its profound impact on mental health often goes unrecognized. As someone deeply entrenched in both personal training and mental health counseling, I have witnessed firsthand the transformative effects of exercise on mental well-being.
EMDR Unveiled: A Guided Journey Through Healing
Hi there! I'm Michelle, a licensed Clinical Social Worker and an EMDR Therapist, and I'm thrilled to share with you the transformative power of Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy. Throughout my career, I've been deeply committed to helping individuals navigate through trauma, recognizing that it comes in various forms, both big and small.