In this book, Esther Perel explores the paradoxical union of domesticity and sexual desire, arguing that our cultural penchant for equality, togetherness, and absolute candor can be antithetical to erotic desire. Drawing on more than twenty years of experience as a couples therapist, Perel uses case studies and lively discussions to demonstrate how more exciting, playful, and poetic sex is possible in long-term relationships. She emphasizes the importance of maintaining independence, mystery, and the space between self and other to sustain desire.
In this book, Esther Perel delves into the complex and often misunderstood topic of infidelity. She weaves real-life case stories with psychological and cultural analysis to understand why people cheat, even in happy marriages. Perel argues that affairs can provide a unique window into modern relationships, revealing our expectations, desires, and cultural attitudes about love, lust, and commitment. The book offers practical advice on how couples can heal from infidelity and potentially grow and learn from these tumultuous experiences.
Tony and Sage Robbins are excited to share this exclusive episode featuring world-renowned psychotherapist and bestselling author Esther Perel. Recorded at the 2017 Platinum Partners Relationship Event, Esther joins Tony and Sage for a deep dive into the complexities of love, desire, and intimacy in modern relationships.
Through a thought-provoking presentation and engaging audience questions, Esther explores the evolving expectations we place on romantic partnerships—how we now seek one person to be both our source of stability and adventure, security and passion. She delves into the contradictions between love and desire, the reasons infidelity occurs even in loving relationships, and the role of imagination in keeping intimacy alive.
Guiding the audience through deep reflections, interactive exercises, and powerful insights, Esther shares practical wisdom on cultivating connection, navigating relationship challenges, and reigniting passion. Together, they explore how cultural conditioning shapes intimacy, why we struggle with the idea of “the one” in a world of endless choices, and the seven key verbs that define the dynamics of a relationship. Offering a fresh perspective on sustaining desire in long-term partnerships, Esther reveals how to reconcile the paradoxes of modern love.
Whether you're in a relationship, seeking one, or reevaluating your approach to love, this episode will challenge your perspectives and leave you with actionable takeaways to enhance the quality of your relationships—and, ultimately, your life.
Please enjoy!
*Tony Robbins is a #1 New York Times best-selling author, entrepreneur, philanthropist, and the nation's #1 Life and Business Strategist. For more than four and a half decades, more than 100 million people from 195 countries have enjoyed the warmth, humor, and transformational power of his business and personal development events.
Mr. Robbins is the author of seven internationally bestselling books, including three #1 New York Times bestsellers: Money: Master the Game, Unshakeable, and Life Force. He created the #1 personal and professional development program of all time, and more than 10 million people have attended his live seminars.
Anthony Robbins is the chairman of a holding company comprising more than 110 privately held businesses with combined sales exceeding $8 billion a year. He has been named in the top 50 of Worth Magazine’s 100 most powerful people in global finance for three consecutive years, honored by Accenture as one of the "Top 50 Business Intellectuals in the World''; by Harvard Business Press as one of the "Top 200 Business Gurus"; and by American Express as one of the "Top Six Business Leaders in the World" to coach its entrepreneurial clients. Fortune’s recent cover article named him the “CEO Whisperer.”
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