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Discovering Joy and Exploring Fair LoveIn this episode, the Relationship Coach Shirah Chante encourages listeners to find joy in their daily lives, despite the chaos of holidays and gatherings. They share inspiration from nature and personal reflections on the ocean's beauty. The episode then transitions to an in-depth reading of the poem Fair Love, Part Four, exploring themes of love, unity, and the unique bond between partners. The host discusses the importance of marital intimacy, the spiritual significance of oneness, and the invincible strength of a committed relationship. The episode concludes with a reminder to cherish divine love and relationships.00:00 Finding Joy in Everyday Moments00:29 The Beauty of Nature and Inspiration01:04 Introduction to the Poem: Fair Love01:46 Reading and Reflecting on Fair Love04:37 The Depth of Marital Love07:54 The Supernatural Aspect of Marriage12:28 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsSupport the show
Join Dan and Stephanie Burke as they discuss a way to listen and understand your spouse more deeply and grow in this marital intimacy! Resources: Divine Intimacy in Marriage - retreat Finding Peace in the Storm - Dan Burke Into the Deep – Dan Burke Spiritual Warfare and the Discernment of Spirits - Dan Burke The Contemplative Rosary - Dan Burke and Connie Rossini A Catholic Guide to Mindfulness - Susan Brinkmann OCDS Avila-Institute.org/events - website Avila Institute for Spiritual Formation EWTN Religious Catalogue – online
Join Dan and Stephanie Burke as they continue discussing how to go deeper in marital intimacy through St. Teresa of Avila's interior castle. Don't miss out as they speak about an exercise to help you listen to your spouse and understand each other more deeply!
Join Dan and Stephanie Burke as they discuss the progression of marital intimacy with the help of St. Teresa of Avila's interior castle and how a daily examen helps marriages! Resources: Divine Intimacy in Marriage - retreat Finding Peace in the Storm - Dan Burke Into the Deep – Dan Burke Spiritual Warfare and the Discernment of Spirits - Dan Burke The Contemplative Rosary - Dan Burke and Connie Rossini A Catholic Guide to Mindfulness - Susan Brinkmann OCDS Avila-Institute.org/events - website Avila Institute for Spiritual Formation EWTN Religious Catalogue – online
Join Dan and Stephanie Burke as they continue walking through and discussing their marriage retreats. Don't miss out as they speak about the progression of marital intimacy using St. Teresa of Avila's interior castle, and how doing a daily examen helps in marriage!
What perspectives on physical intimacy does our tradition offer? What is the halachic framework for intimacy in marriage? Transcript and sources: https://www.deracheha.org/physical-intimacy-1/ Want to sponsor an episode? Email us at deracheha@gmail.com
Join Dan and Stephanie Burke as they discuss how St. Teresa of Avila's interior castle in important to progressing in marital intimacy! Resources: Divine Intimacy in Marriage - retreat Finding Peace in the Storm - Dan Burke Into the Deep – Dan Burke Spiritual Warfare and the Discernment of Spirits - Dan Burke The Contemplative Rosary - Dan Burke and Connie Rossini A Catholic Guide to Mindfulness - Susan Brinkmann OCDS Avila-Institute.org/events - website Avila Institute for Spiritual Formation EWTN Religious Catalogue – online
Join Dan and Stephanie Burke as they continue their series on divine intimacy in marriage. Don't miss out as they speak on how St. Teresa of Avila's interior castle is key to journeying together in marital intimacy!
Relationships in God's Design
Teaching on Song of Solomon 7
Pastor Josh McPherson preaches from 1 Corinthians 7:1–5, challenging common cultural lies and calling married couples to embrace God's design for intimacy. Discover why sex is not about mastering technique but cultivating covenant, and how a healthy marriage bed can transform your entire relationship—and even be a powerful form of spiritual warfare.Want to learn how to talk to your kids about sex? -FREE Resource from Pastor Josh: https://mailchi.mp/strongermannation.com/talktoyourkidsaboutsexSupport the showThanks for listening! Go to www.StrongerManNation.com for more resources.
Marital Intimacy ~ Marital Intimacy: Use it or Lose it - a short interview with Dr. Barry Mccarthy. Listen to caller's personal dramas four times each week as Dr. Kenner takes your calls and questions on parenting, romance, love, family, marriage, divorce, hobbies, career, mental health - any personal issue! Call anytime, toll free 877-Dr-Kenner. Visit www.drkenner.com for more information about the show.
Fear, anxiety, and insecurity are enemies of marital intimacy. We all carry shame and insecurity as the fallen sons of Adam and the fallen daughters of Eve. To cover up those insecurities and shame, we wear “fig leaves” that become patterns of dysfunction in marriage. God can redeem you, redefine your marriage, and renew your relationship. The love story in Song of Solomon can help us take a personal inventory of our fears and anxieties. When we are honest with our spouse, we are better able to exist in marital intimacy where we are more fully known and fully loved. Three things to remember to love and be loved well: 1.) You don't need to get married to be loved—you already are! No one will love you better than Jesus! You will never love well until you rest in God's perfect love. 2.) Your mate is not meant to complete you—only complement you. God gives you a mate to complement who you are but not to complete who you are. If you look to your spouse to complete you, you will begin to compete. 3.) Marriage is more for your sanctification than your satisfaction! Sanctification is the process of God making you become more like Christ. It is in the community of marriage that you're healed from your sin. The number one thing you can do in your marriage is pray together every day. Jesus is the ultimate lover of your soul. Only as you rest in God's love will you be able to give and receive love. Until you rest in His love, nobody else's love will ever be enough. Join Pastor Phil as he shares lessons from the Song of Solomon on how to guard against the patterns of conflict caused by insecurity, fear, and anxiety.
In this candid and biblically grounded conversation, Pastor Josh and his wife, Sharon address real questions about sex in marriage. They open by noting that every couple's situation is unique, and these answers are broad principles rather than one-size-fits-all prescriptions. Topics include how frequently couples should be intimate (emphasizing mutual satisfaction over rigid formulas), the importance of creativity and scheduling when children are older and need constant supervision, and the role of prayer in enhancing sexual intimacy. The conversation also covers the nuances of mutual agreements in marriage, encouraging openness and service rather than grudging obligation. They highlight the importance of staying mentally engaged during intimacy and provide insights for husbands whose wives struggle to believe they are beautiful. Throughout, they emphasize humility, godliness, and mutual edification as the foundation for a thriving sexual relationship.Support the showThanks for listening! Go to www.StrongerManNation.com for more resources.
Send us a textDan Purcell from Get Your Marriage On is back for Part 2 of our deep dive into marital intimacy! In this episode, we're pushing the conversation even further—getting Dan's take on introducing porn into marriage, the impact it can have on connection, and whether it helps or harms intimacy. We're also exploring the power of role play in keeping the spark alive and how couples can step outside their comfort zones in a way that strengthens their bond.And just for fun—we're playing a spicy "Would You Rather" game that'll have you thinking (and laughing) about your own relationship dynamics!If you loved Part 1, you won't want to miss this one! Tune in for expert insights, honest takes, and a few surprises along the way.
Is marital intimacy on the Sabbath a violation of the commandment to keep the seventh day holy? The Rabbis say no, but the author of the book of Jubilees says yes. Which view is more aligned with Scripture?https://davidwilber.com/
In this mini episode of More Than Roommates (our last “Quickie”), Derek, Gabrielle, and Scott discuss what's next—what do you do with all that's been shared in these 12 days of Quickie episodes. We also share some recommended resources to help you take the next step in your marriage and sexual intimacy. Questions to Discuss:Which episode of the 12 days of Quickies was most helpful to you?What's something you learned in this series that you want to apply in your marriage?Are there some concepts discussed in these episodes that would be good to discuss with community to help encourage and challenge each other? Resources:Book – Married Sex: A Christian Couple's Guide to Reimagining Your Love Life, by Gary Thomas and Debra FiletaWebsite – Authentic IntimacyPodcast – Christian Sexuality – Java with JuliPodcasts – The Naked Marriage Podcast with Dave & Ashley Willis and Marriage on the Line with Dave & AshleyBook – A Celebration of Sex for Newlyweds, by Douglas RosenauBook - Secrets of Sex and Marriage: 8 Surprises That Make All the Difference, by Shaunti Feldhahn and Michael Sytsma
In this episode, Dan discusses the importance of establishing and maintaining healthy friendships while avoiding emotional affairs that can jeopardize marital intimacy. The conversation also touches on the need for modesty in speech and the importance of keeping certain aspects of marital life private to foster trust and intimacy between partners. RESOURCES BELOW WANT A BETTER SEX LIFE? Intimacy Guide: https://forms.aweber.com/form/25/71380525.htm WANT PEACE AT HOME? Family Culture: https://forms.aweber.com/form/19/955349019.htm Ebook: https://forms.aweber.com/form/31/202341731.htm WHAT WORKS IN MARRIAGE Webinar: https://forms.aweber.com/form/25/437413425.htm Watch this before you call a divorce attorney: https://forms.aweber.com/form/32/107630932.htm Chesterton Academy of Buffalo Find a Chesterton School Near You Mezanine Creative Co: Graphic Design for Small Business
Send us a textWe had to re-record this episode cause of technical issues, but we think it's better than our first attempt. Here it is: why your mental load may be ruining your marital intimacy. Let's jump in!PRE-ORDER LOVEMAKING! For 30 friends! Our Codes!Mentionables: https://www.shopmentionables.com/TWOBECOMERead and Subscribe to our Substack: We Loved Making Lovemakinghttps://twobecomefamily.substack.com/Inito: Inito.com CODE: MON15SUPPORT OUR APOSTOLATEThank you all for your ongoing support. We love what we do and pray that it is a blessing to you and your families. If you are benefitting in some way from what we're doing, here are some ways you can support our show: Support us on Patreon!Our other booksGo To Joseph: 10 Day Consecration to St. JosephGo To Joseph For ChildrenOur ApostolateAbout UsConnect with us and send us a message on InstagramYouTube ChannelEpisode Music by Alex_MakeMusic from PixabaySupport the Show.Support the show
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Husbands and wives want healthy attachment, intimacy and oneness. Yet, sometimes it can be elusive. In this episode of Breaking Bread, marriage and family therapist Kaleb Beyer helps us see one barrier to intimacy – relational pain. Fortunately, there is a path forward but be forewarned, it will require going backward before going forward. Show notes: Intimacy has cleverly been defined as “into me you see.” This is a good definition and a wonderful intention for marriages. It is not uncommon, however, for “blocks” to exist that prove intimacy difficult. One common “block” to intimacy is relational pain. By relational pain we mean the pain that comes when relational attachment is damaged. That is, safety, security, trust, and vulnerability are compromised. Often this relational stress is not intentional. Sometimes it happens without us putting words to it. However, it often happens in high stakes moments and seasons of transition. When couples go through moments of loss, disruption and transition in such a way that safety, security, trust and vulnerability are damaged, relational wounds can result. This pain is a block to intimacy. To move forward, it will be necessary to go back to the past and visit these moments. Healing is often found in putting words to the fears, sadnesses and hurts that these moments ushered into the relationship. Further, soothing the fears, grieving the sadnesses and healing the hurt will be an objective in moving forward and growing in intimacy.
Text us your questions or topics for the show! We got you!Cass Morrow, Author of Disrupting Divorce: The NEW Man. Saving Struggling, Sexless, and Toxic Marriages.Kathryn Morrow, Author of Behind The White Picket Fence.Coming Clean!In Ep211 of The 'NEW' Marriage, we discuss the importance of "Coming Clean." Honesty and transparency are essential for any relationship, and this episode focuses on the power of coming clean in your marriage. Whether it's about past mistakes, secrets, or unresolved issues, we explore how opening up can lead to healing, trust-building, and deeper intimacy. Tune in to learn how to embrace vulnerability, create a more authentic connection, and strengthen your marriage through open communication.
We see, in Proverbs 5, four ways to stay off the path of adultery: spot the false advertising (vv 1-6), avoid the consequences (vv 7-14), take the antidote (vv 15-19), and recognize the reality (vv 20-23).
1 Corinthians 7:1-5 Message Notes Purity First Support The Journey
Have a question you want answered? Submit it here!This episode was recorded in 2022.Unlock the secrets to a more fulfilling marriage with the insights of Dr. Corey Allan, a marriage and family therapist, licensed professional counselor, and author of "Naked Marriage: Uncovering Who You Are and Who You Can Be Together." Dr. Allan shares compelling research on the impact of religiosity on marital and sexual satisfaction, revealing how higher levels of religious dogma correlate with lower sexual satisfaction. Learn why open conversations about sex—even before tying the knot—are vital for overcoming shame and guilt from upbringings, and how these dialogues can pave the way for stronger relationships.Ever wondered why desire differences create friction in marriages? This episode sheds light on this often-taboo topic. Dr. Allan and I dig deep into how communication issues in relationships frequently extend to the bedroom, affecting both high and low desire partners. We challenge the stigma around lower desire and offer actionable strategies to better understand and respond to each other's needs. Discover how foreplay and connection can go beyond physical touch, and how reevaluating the quality of sexual experiences can help mitigate feelings of rejection and frustration.Looking to reignite the spark in your relationship? Dr. Allan offers practical advice on rebuilding intimacy and connection through honesty, emotional regulation, and leadership. We discuss a real-life story about a couple struggling with financial transparency and emphasize the importance of self-regulation in fostering trust. Learn how introducing novelty and spontaneity can enhance sexual intimacy and why staying present and attuned to your partner can lead to more fulfilling experiences. Don't miss the exploration of personal growth within marriage, as Dr. Allan shares insights from his book and podcast, "Sexy Marriage Radio," and highlights resources available through his online practice.Dr. Allan's site - https://smrnation.com/Naked Marriage book - https://amzn.to/3G9mpVmSubscribe to the Sexy Marriage Radio podcast: https://smrnation.com/subscribe/Your Host: Kimberly Beam Holmes, Expert in Self-Improvement and RelationshipsKimberly Beam Holmes has applied her master's degree in psychology for over ten years, acting as the CEO of Marriage Helper & CEO and Creator of PIES University, being a wife and mother herself, and researching how attraction affects relationships. Her videos, podcasts, and following reach over 500,000 people a month who are making changes and becoming the best they can be.
Resources: The Seven Deadly Sins - Dr. Kevin Vost Rooting Out Hidden Faults - James McElhone Finding Peace in the Storm - Dan Burke Into the Deep – Dan Burke Spiritual Warfare and the Discernment of Spirits - Dan Burke The Contemplative Rosary - Dan Burke and Connie Rossini The Contemplative Rosary App (phones and tablets only) A Catholic Guide to Mindfulness - Susan Brinkmann OCDS Avila-Institute.org/events - website Avila Institute for Spiritual Formation EWTN Religious Catalogue – online
Join Dan and Stephanie Burke as they discuss marriage spirituality on this episode. Tune in as they talk about how going deeper in prayer can bring you closer to your spouse!
Join Dan and Stephanie Burke as they discuss marriage spirituality on this episode. Tune in as they talk about how going deeper in prayer can bring you closer to your spouse!
Hey, Holistic Wellness Warrior
When your first child comes along, it often results in a decline of marital intimacy. You get so caught up with taking care of the baby that you don't have the time or energy to enrich your marriage. Don't resent your spouse - take positive action.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Let's talk about marital intimacy! Sexual intimacy in marriage should not be underestimated! As Mike Hernon says on the Messy Family Podcast, sex in the grease that keeps the machine running! Sex helps keep our marriages running smoothly and happily along, and should be an ever-present part of our relationships. In this episode, we talk a little about what the Catholic Church teaches about sex and then go through 6 tips for having more and better sex in our marriages! Look out for the next episode, which is an interview with the founder and president of TOBET (Theology of the Body Evangelization Team). We discuss theology of the body--what it is and how to bring it into our families and marriages! Some resources to learn more about theology of the body if you are exploring God's design for sex: Charting Towards Intimacy podcast--TONS of great episodes on all kinds of specific sex questions Vinesinfullbloom.com where there are courses for learning more and availability of coaching for growth in the area of intimacy Good News about Sex and Marriage: Answers to Your Honest Questions about Catholic Teaching by Christopher West Holy Sex by Gregory Popcak
1 Corinthians 7:1-5 Message Notes Purity First Support The Journey
1 Corinthians 7:1-5 Message Notes Purity First Support The Journey
In this episode of "Memoirs of an LDS Servant Teacher," Maurice Harker, Director of Life Changing Services, shares a clip from a live Marriage Repair Workshop. Maurice uses the metaphor of driving a stick shift to explain the delicate balance required to maintain the spirit and harmony in marital conversations. He emphasizes the importance of sensitivity and adaptability, likening the levels of marital intimacy to the gears of a car. Maurice encourages men to take responsibility for the spiritual and emotional atmosphere in their marriages, offering practical advice on how to navigate through different stages of intimacy. Listeners are invited to explore the Marriage Repair Workshops and Lazarus Lectures for further guidance and support. Want to read more about this topic? https://www.lifechangingservices.org/improving-intimacy-in-your-marriage/ Rather Watch Something? https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EfBZj-uCiGI&t=3s Check out the Marriage Repair Workshops: https://www.lifechangingservices.org/marriage-repair/
Join us today as our CFL team chats with Carolina Ferrer, founder of Carolinas Compassionate Counseling. It's interesting how our lack of mental and emotional connection affects our marital intimacy! Today we are challenged to fight the enemy through the power of the Holy Spirit to create an environment of health in all areas of your marriage!
Every Christian couple should humbly pursue marital intimacy
What to do when sports is taking up all your time? When you don't have privacy in the bedroom? How to know if you are violating the Law of Priority? How to be a good mother of boys and encourage differentiation? Pastor Josh and Sharon McPherson answer your questions from week 3 of the Stronger Marriage series, "The Law of Priority." Click on the link below for a free "30 Days to a Stronger Marriage" resource. Thanks for listening! Go to www.StrongerManNation.com for more resources.
What do you do when you have no time or energy for sex as a mom? What do you do when your husband's mom makes you feel inferior? What do you do when you feel jealousy in a marriage? How do you unlock the mysteries of your wife? Pastor Josh McPherson and his wife Sharon answer your questions from week 3 of the Stronger Marriage series, "The Law of Priority." Click on the link below for a free "30 Days to a Stronger Marriage" resource. Thanks for listening! Go to www.StrongerManNation.com for more resources.
Naketa Ren Thigpen is the world's number one Balance and Relationship Advisor. With a groundbreaking approach that merges psychotherapy, trauma expertise, and relationship wisdom, Naketa challenges norms and ignites transformative change. She's the host of the Balance Boldly Podcast and author of "Selfish: Permission to Pause.” This episode covers the complex topic of managing your stress so that you can better show up for your relationships. Naketa provides many inspirational, realistic, and practical tips that all busy people will be able to utilize. Key Topics: - Why self care matters for relationships - How negative self-talk hinders your ability to show up in relationships - How being “intentionally selfish” helps relationships - Avoiding burnout and reactive stress - How to instantly shift your nervous system - How to improve your sexual connection when you're exhausted - The importance of being assertive and asking for what you need Learn more about Naketa at Thigpro.com and listen to her podcast Balanced Boldly. Follow her on social media at @asknaketa. Download Erin's stress-busting nutrient guide here: https://mailchi.mp/5bf7e5c21f62/stress-busting-nutrition-guide
Naketa Ren Thigpen is the world's number one Balance and Relationship Advisor. With a groundbreaking approach that merges psychotherapy, trauma expertise, and relationship wisdom, Naketa challenges norms and ignites transformative change. She's the host of the Balance Boldly Podcast and author of "Selfish: Permission to Pause.” This episode covers the complex topic of managing your stress so that you can better show up for your relationships. Naketa provides many inspirational, realistic, and practical tips that all busy people will be able to utilize. Key Topics: - Why self care matters for relationships - How negative self-talk hinders your ability to show up in relationships - How being “intentionally selfish” helps relationships - Avoiding burnout and reactive stress - How to instantly shift your nervous system - How to improve your sexual connection when you're exhausted - The importance of being assertive and asking for what you need Learn more about Naketa at Thigpro.com and listen to her podcast Balanced Boldly. Follow her on social media at @asknaketa. Download Erin's stress-busting nutrient guide here: https://mailchi.mp/5bf7e5c21f62/stress-busting-nutrition-guide
Naketa Ren Thigpen is the world's number one Balance and Relationship Advisor. With a groundbreaking approach that merges psychotherapy, trauma expertise, and relationship wisdom, Naketa challenges norms and ignites transformative change. She's the host of the Balance Boldly Podcast and author of "Selfish: Permission to Pause.” This episode covers the complex topic of managing your stress so that you can better show up for your relationships. Naketa provides many inspirational, realistic, and practical tips that all busy people will be able to utilize. Key Topics: - Why self care matters for relationships - How negative self-talk hinders your ability to show up in relationships - How being “intentionally selfish” helps relationships - Avoiding burnout and reactive stress - How to instantly shift your nervous system - How to improve your sexual connection when you're exhausted - The importance of being assertive and asking for what you need Learn more about Naketa at Thigpro.com and listen to her podcast Balanced Boldly. Follow her on social media at @asknaketa. Download Erin's stress-busting nutrient guide here: https://mailchi.mp/5bf7e5c21f62/stress-busting-nutrition-guide
As a marriage therapist that integrates my faith into my work, it is often difficult to find resources I can share about marital intimacy that are appropriate for Catholic and Christian couples, because what is generally out there is overly explicit and reductionistic. What can faithful couples do who want to improve their physical intimacy? Listen to this episode and share with their friends. I'm excited to welcome back to the podcast, Dr. Sarah Bartel, Catholic moral theologian, to discuss her new online course: My Delight for Catholic Wives. This episode is a comprehensive discussion on the topic of enhancing marital intimacy within the context of faith. We focus on common challenges faced by Catholic Christian wives regarding physical intimacy. We discuss the differences between men and women's anatomies, arousal curves, and experiences of lovemaking. The conversation covers various aspects such as dealing with emotional challenges, physical challenges, misconceptions around 'obligation sex,' and other hinderances to healthy sexual expression in marriage. We cover many practical suggestions for improving intimacy that will help your marriage: the need for transition time, seeing intimacy as an important part of your relationship, the significance of foreplay, and embracing novelty while staying connected to each other. I am giving the caveat that this is a detailed conversation, so you may want to listen to this one with your headphones on. And I strongly encourage that this episode be listened to by folks who are already married or engaged couples preparing for marriage. It'll help you reclaim joy in the bedroom. Have thoughts about this episode? Join the conversation on Instagram. Websites mentioned in the show: My Delight Course
"Purity Culture" wields an immense influence over numerous marriages, affecting not only women but also their husbands. From a young age, many of us were taught that sex is bad, taboo, and should be avoided at all costs, and it was a topic that was off limits for many people to talk about. Yet, upon marriage, suddenly it's deemed not only acceptable, but something you should do and enjoy often.. which we believe is true! It's hardly surprising that such ingrained beliefs can create obstacles for spouses, hindering their ability to embrace sexual intimacy without guilt or shame, because of the way they were taught about sex growing up.In this episode, we delve into the profound repercussions of "Purity Culture" on individuals and marriages alike. We'll share insights gathered from our poll on this topic and explore strategies to navigate this challenge within marriage. Our aim is to empower couples to discover joy and fulfillment in their sexual intimacy, free from the burdens of guilt and shame.If you haven't already, go check out the Ultimate Intimacy App in the app stores, or at ultimateintimacy.com to find "Ultimate Intimacy" in your marriage. It's FREE to download and so much fun! Find out why over 700,000 couples have downloaded the app and give it such high ratings and reviews!WANT AMAZING PRODUCTS TO SPICE THINGS UP? YES PLEASE... CLICK HEREThe Ultimate Intimacy Sexual Intimacy Marriage Course can be found HEREThe Intimacy and Adventure Marriage Retreat to connect on a deeper level as a couple! Find out more at https://ultimateintimacy.com/retreats/Follow us on Instagram @ultimateintimacyapp for app updates, polls, giveaways, daily marriage quotes and more.If you have any feedback, comments or topics you would like to hear on future episodes, reach out to us at amy@ultimateintimacy.com and let us know! We greatly appreciate your feedback and please leave us a review.
We're diving deep into nurturing intimacy in our marriages, and we're now on week 4 of our enlightening series. As we journey together, I've been moved by the responses I've received, particularly about the longing for intimacy in relationships. It's a shared desire: connection, belonging, and intimacy. However, nurturing intimacy starts by looking within ourselves, especially when distance creeps in between partners.In this week's episode, we're exploring the profound connection between compassion and empathy, drawing from Brene Brown's Atlas of the Heart. Brown beautifully articulates how compassion is a daily practice, while empathy is a powerful tool within compassion. She highlights the significance of cognitive empathy in fostering meaningful connections, allowing us to understand and reflect on another person's emotions.We'll delve into Theresa Wiseman's research on empathy, exploring the four attributes she assigned to empathy and incorporating a fifth attribute from Kristin Neff's work on self-compassion. From perspective-taking to practicing mindfulness, we'll uncover the essential elements of empathetic connection.To bring these concepts to life, I'll share a vulnerable experience from my own life, offering insights into how empathy can transform conflicts into opportunities for deeper understanding and connection.As we explore empathy, I invite you to pay attention to the riffs that arise in your relationships and embrace curiosity as a pathway to understanding. And if you find yourself grappling with empathy or facing challenges in your relationship, consider booking a Courageous Love Conversation with me. Together, we'll navigate through the complexities and discover actionable steps towards a more connected and fulfilling relationship.Remember, struggles are not setbacks but opportunities for growth and deeper connection. Let's commit to taking steps forward, hand in hand, towards the intimacy we desire.Tune in to Episode 155: Hearts Unveiled Pt 4: Nurturing Marital Intimacy with Empathy, and let's continue this transformative journey together.With warmth and encouragement,ChristineCBS News Interview: 6 Tips For A Healthy & Loving RelationshipDownload my free Love Affirmations Mini-Course to help you to start thinking and feeling in a way that feels more like love. More resources and how you can start the process of Awakening(YourTrue)You and being the partner who creates your best version of what marriage looks like for you: https://christinebongiovanni.com/Join my AwakenYou newsletter for weekly marriage tips and early announcements of upcoming offerings.Book your free Courageous Love Conversation here.InstagramFacebook
Welcome back to another week of transformative conversations on AwakenYou in Your Marriage! This week, we're continuing our exploration of nurturing marital intimacy with the captivating theme "Hearts Unveiled Part 3: Nurturing Marital Intimacy with Curiosity."In this episode, we delve into the power of curiosity, a key component highlighted by Brene Brown in her Atlas of the Heart. Discover how curiosity becomes an irreducible element of courageous leadership in the context of our marriages. Join me as we navigate the intricate dynamics of curiosity, vulnerability, and growth.Here's a sneak peek of what you'll learn:1. Curiosity as a Catalyst: Uncover why curiosity is essential for courageous leadership in your marriage.2. Closing the Gap: Explore how curiosity bridges the knowledge gap about your partner's actions, fostering emotional and cognitive investment.3. Choosing Vulnerability: Understand the courageous choice of being curious, surrendering to uncertainty, and asking questions that lead to growth.4. Real-life Example: Join me as I share a recent, escalated exchange with Jeff, offering insights into applying curiosity to navigate conflicts and repair relationships.Ready for an example? Last night when Jeff got home...Remember, curiosity opens doors to understanding, compassion, and a new dynamic in your relationship. If you're ready to start the work of transforming your marriage, join me in a courageous love conversation. You can book your session by visiting the show notes below.And as you gain insights, share the love! Take a moment to leave a 5-star rating and share a few words on your preferred podcast platform. Your words could inspire others on their journey to improving their marriages.If you know someone who could use a dose of encouragement in their marriage, don't hesitate to share the podcast with them.Until next week, let's keep showing up and changing—every day, until one day you don't recognize your old self.With love and curiosity,Christine
As we dive into AwakenYou in Your Marriage episode 153: Nurturing Marital Intimacy through Vulnerability, I'm thrilled to share a piece of my personal journey with you. This year is all about vulnerability (my word of the year), and I'm excited to be on this open, honest, and transformative ride with each of you.On a creative note, my book project is back in full swing. I've recommitted to transcribing, refining, and shaping its artistic foundation. It's a passionate endeavor, and though the final outcome is uncertain, the process itself is a beautiful journey of self-discovery.Now, let's talk about vulnerability in marriage. In this episode, we'll explore what vulnerability is and why it's crucial for our relationships. Drawing insights from Brene Brown, we'll discuss emotional exposure, uncertainty, and risk.We'll delve into the barriers that keep us from being vulnerable and how to lay the foundation in your marriage for openness. I'll share tips on noticing and warmly receiving your spouse's vulnerability, fostering a safe space for intimacy to thrive.Remember, vulnerable shares start small as you strengthen your relationship with yourself. Recognize your spouse's responses and understand that your ability to expose yourself emotionally helps facilitate their vulnerability.Building a safe place for each other is key. By practicing active listening, stepping into your spouse's shoes, maintaining confidentiality, and checking in with your own feelings, you create an environment where vulnerability can flourish.As I've moved through these steps personally, I've witnessed profound changes in my relationship. Building self-confidence enhances my connection with myself and strengthens my openness to share, regardless of others' reactions.If you're longing for deeper connection and intimacy in your relationship, know it's possible to re-connect. Join me for a Courageous Love Conversation, where we can explore your struggles, fears, and doubts and discuss the process of creating something extraordinary.Here's to vulnerability, intimacy, and the transformative power of love.XOX,Christine CBS News Interview: 6 Tips For A Healthy & Loving RelationshipDownload my free Love Affirmations Mini-Course to help you to start thinking and feeling in a way that feels more like love. More resources and how you can start the process of Awakening(YourTrue)You and being the partner who creates your best version of what marriage looks like for you: https://christinebongiovanni.com/Join my AwakenYou newsletter for weekly marriage tips and early announcements of upcoming offerings.Book your free Courageous Love Conversation here.InstagramFacebook
I hope this message finds you well as we step into 2024 filled with opportunities for growth and connection. I'm excited to share a sneak peek of my upcoming podcast episode 151: "Hearts Unveiled: Nurturing Marital Intimacy," where we'll explore the key components to create deeper intimacy in your marriage.In this episode, you will learn:Differentiation: Understand the importance of recognizing that you and your partner are unique individuals with separate thoughts and beliefsCuriosity: Dive into the core of building intimacy by asking questions and cultivating a genuine desire to understand and explore each other.Vulnerability: Learn how opening up allows your spouse to see into your core, fostering a profound connection.Empathy: Understand that sharing dreams, pains, and joys builds trust and strengthens intimacy. It's not about agreement but about understanding and reflecting back emotions.As you embark on this journey to nurture marital intimacy, keep in mind that these components come together to build something truly amazing. While working on these aspects might not be feasible at the start, especially without going through the untangling process, the rewards are profound when both partners stand on their own feet, own their emotions, and work towards building a path back together.To dive deeper into these components and explore what it takes to enhance intimacy in your marriage, don't miss this episode. Subscribe to AwakenYou in Your Marriage to catch all the follow-ups as we delve into the steps to amplify intimacy. If you're ready for the challenge and seeking a more intimate relationship, consider booking a Courageous Love Conversation. Let's make this a year of growing closer to the one we're with!CBS News Interview: 6 Tips For A Healthy & Loving RelationshipDownload my free Love Affirmations Mini-Course to help you to start thinking and feeling in a way that feels more like love. More resources and how you can start the process of Awakening(YourTrue)You and being the partner who creates your best version of what marriage looks like for you: https://christinebongiovanni.com/Join my AwakenYou newsletter for weekly marriage tips and early announcements of upcoming offerings.Book your free Courageous Love Conversation here.InstagramFacebook
Support this podcast, Become a Patron: https://marriageaftergod.com/patron or buy one of our many marriage resources: https://shop.marriageaftergod.comIn this episode, we open up about our personal struggle with a sexless marriage, something we grappled with for many years. We delve into our journey, discuss the common causes of a sexless marriage, and provide potential solutions that helped us and may help other couples too. While each couple's experience is unique, we hope our story provides guidance and hope to those facing a similar situation.Key Points Discussed:Understanding Our Issue: We emphasize that it's crucial not to define our entire marriage by sex. Although sex is a vital aspect of a marital relationship, it shouldn't overshadow the other elements that make a marriage meaningful.Dealing with Our Discouragement: We share how living in a sexless marriage can feel lonely and discouraging. We discuss the importance of identifying and challenging the lies and doubts that may arise in such times.Our Practical Solutions: We explore the practical steps we took to address this issue in a way that aligns with our faith and spiritual beliefs.Avoiding External Pitfalls: We stress the importance of resisting the temptation to seek fulfillment outside the marriage through mediums like romance novels or pornography, which can worsen the situation rather than help.Maintaining Hope and Encouragement: We discuss our journey through a sexless marriage, which required maintaining a positive mindset, keeping faith, and continually encouraging each other.Prayer:Dear Lord,Thank you for the special gift of sex in marriage. We appreciate the way you designed to experience being one flesh in a physical way. We pray we would continually pursue one another and posture our hearts to be inviting and ready and willing to embrace each other. We pray over our marriage and specifically our sex in marriage that we would be blessed and fulfilled. Please help us to love one another and meet each others needs. We pray when we come together; it would be a positive experience.In Jesus' name AMEN!