Relationship Renovation: Marriage Advice, Intimacy & Couples Communication

Tarah and EJ interview Robin Memel Fox MA, BC-DMT, LPC, Board-certified Dance/Movement Therapist with over 25 years of experience working in the field of mental health and wellness. Robin has worked with individuals, couples, families and children in both community mental health and treatment centers. She has extensive expertise in trauma, relationships, addiction and couples/family systems.This episode explores trauma and its effects on individuals and couples. They define trauma, explore treatment options and help couples learn how trauma can create challenges in self-regulation and conflict resolution. The concept of Embodied Healing is explored, which can help couples become more in tune with themselves in order to feel more connected with their partner.https://www.bridgestorecovery.com/post-traumatic-stress-disorder/ptsd-and-relationships/https://coloradorecoveryservices.org/the-impact-of-unresolved-trauma-on-relationships/https://drarielleschwartz.com/the-polyvagal-theory-and-healing-complex-ptsd-dr-arielle-schwartz/https://adta.memberclicks.net/what-is-dancemovement-therapyhttps://brickelandassociates.com/trauma-survivor-relationships/Info on Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) and Post Childhood Experiences (PCEs)https://developingchild.harvard.edu/resources/aces-and-toxic-stress-frequently-asked-questions/https://lindsaybraman.com/positive-childhood-experiences-aces/ EMDR:https://maibergerinstitute.com/emdr-therapy-tools-resources/https://www.emdria.org/https://www.emdr.com/what-is-emdr/Books on understanding trauma and healing (not exhaustive list):The Body Keeps the Score: Brain, Mind, and Body in the Healing of Trauma by Bessel van der Kolk M.D.Waking the Tiger: Healing Trauma by Peter LevineTransforming the Living Legacy of Trauma: A Workbook for Survivors and Therapists by Janina FisherThe Complex PTSD Workbook by Arielle Schwartz, PhDThe Post-traumatic Growth Workbook by Arielle Schwartz, PhDHealing Developmental Trauma, How early trauma affects self-regulation, self-image, and the capacity for relationship by Laurence Heller, PhD and Aline LaPierre, PsyDAdditional resources: Seek justice for sexual traumaCommunicating with your partner about frustrationsHard times make for stronger bonds and greater happiness Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

Open communication is a cornerstone of healthy relationships. Tarah and EJ emphasize the need to address concerns with your partner early to prevent frustrations from escalating. They explore why some couples become conflict-avoidant, highlighting the dangers of unresolved issues. Daily check-ins and gentle communication techniques can foster emotional safety. Sharing feelings can transform conflicts into opportunities for deeper connection, ensuring that couples support each other through challenges.

Tarah and EJ dive into the common phenomenon where couples drift into the realm of being 'roommates.' They reminisce about the thrill of the honeymoon phase and discuss how it often fades, leading to emotional disconnection. The concept of habituation is explored, shedding light on complacency and the need for revitalized intimacy. Open communication is highlighted as key to overcoming loneliness and maintaining attraction. Furthermore, they share practical strategies for couples to reconnect and navigate challenging times together.

Tarah and EJ interview Jessie Krall, a therapist who specializes in Somatic Experiencing https://traumahealing.org/. Somatic Experiencing focuses on body awareness as a way to connect to emotions. This technique can help couples communicate in a productive way even in challenging moments.They discuss the Window of Tolerance and how this concept can support healthy attachment in relationships. This episode will help couples understand dynamics that contribute to destructive communication patterns and offers a variety of tools to communicate in a more mindful and kind way.Progressive Body Scan MeditationAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

Discover how commitment in relationships means helping each other grow. The hosts dive into personal development, addressing how past traumas can shape connections. They emphasize supportive feedback over criticism and the power of open communication. Learn strategies to overcome complacency and foster intimacy, ensuring both partners thrive. Recognizing blind spots can lead to deeper understanding, while curiosity strengthens connections. Embrace growth together for a healthier, more fulfilling relationship.

Discover how creating systems in relationships can transform conflict resolution. Learn practical strategies for maintaining emotional connection during stressful times. Explore the power of daily check-ins to deepen intimacy. Uncover the effectiveness of code words for managing arguments and promoting empathy. Gain insights into emotional triage to navigate conflicts with clarity. Embrace personal growth as a key to stronger partnerships, fostering resilience and community in your love life.

The hosts dive into the transformative power of gratitude in relationships. They share personal stories about how expressing appreciation can enhance emotional connection and intimacy. Navigating challenges after becoming parents can be tough, but intentional gratitude helps prevent feelings of complacency. Daily practices, like morning check-ins, are suggested to nurture appreciation. The link between gratitude and self-esteem is emphasized, showing how mutual recognition fosters a supportive and loving environment.

Understanding your partner fully is key to a thriving relationship. The challenges of familiarity can lead to selective appreciation, and navigating the love-hate dynamic offers both humor and insights. Open communication is vital, especially during emotional transitions, as partners support one another through tough times. Relationships not only bring joy but also serve as powerful avenues for personal growth. Embracing each other's strengths and weaknesses can truly transform the bond between partners.

In this episode Tarah and E.J. discuss the challenges couples are facing in the age of COVID.Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

In this episode Tarah and EJ have a guest, Bryce Paradis MA Clinical Therapy, a therapist specializing in couples counseling and substance abuse. The three discuss substance use/abuse and it's effects on healthy relationships. The also talk about increased alcohol use during the current Covid quarantine. Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands