Are you feeling disconnected in your relationship, particularly in the realm of sexual desire? Many couples struggle with mismatches in sexual needs and desire levels, leading to feelings of frustration, guilt, and even rejection. This disconnection can strain relationships, making intimacy seem like an elusive goal instead of a fulfilling part of life. But what if there were ways to bridge that gap and reignite the flame, regardless of societal pressures and personal insecurities? In this episode, we delve deep into the complexities of sexual desire within relationships. We explore the psychological, physiological, and emotional factors contributing to low desire and how cultural expectations shape our intimate lives. We offer practical advice on communicating about sexual mismatches, utilizing mindfulness to enhance connection and the importance of understanding different desire patterns. Whether you're dealing with the impacts of medication, past trauma, or shifting dynamics over time, this conversation provides insights and tools to create a more passionate and connected relationship. Jennifer Gunsaullus, Ph.D. is a Sexologist, Sociologist, Relationship Coach, Author, and International Speaker. A radical force for self-expression, Dr. Jenn has spent the last 20+ years tearing down social stigmas and shame around sexual expression. A celebrated author, Dr. Jenn is the writer of From Madness to Mindfulness: Reinventing Sex for Women, a self-help guide designed to liberate women and help them reclaim passion and pleasure both in and out of the bedroom. Check out the transcript of this episode on Dr. Jessica Higgin's website. In this episode 05:59 Exploring the complexities of low sexual desire. 14:11 Mismatched desires: Cultivating intention and understanding. 21:12 Mindfulness and sexual desire: Enhancing presence in intimacy. 24:17 Navigating body image concerns and their impact on desire. 27:21 Challenging outdated sexual norms for greater fulfillment. 31:23 The power of flexibility and creativity in sexual experiences. 35:48 Sustaining Long-term relationships through adaptation. 37:38 Using erotic stories and technology to enhance arousal. 41:44 Embracing new erotic concepts and understanding desires. 46:16 Prioritizing communication and vulnerability in relationships. 51:06 The crucial role of mindfulness and dialogue in sexual health. Mentioned 15 Best Audio Erotica Apps and Spicy Stories for Pleasure (link) From Madness to Mindfulness: Reinventing Sex for Women (*Amazon Affiliate link) (book) Podcast - Sex Talk with Clint & the Doc Female sexual shame hurts us all | Jennifer Gunsaullus | TEDxPhoenixville (*YouTube link) (video) ERP 334: How to Practice Mindful Intimacy — An Interview With Dr. Jennifer Gunsaullus ERP 362: Understanding & Increasing Sexual Desire — An Interview with Dr. Lori Brotto ERP 444: A Major Block To Sexual Desire and Sexual Intimacy In Long-Term Relationship — An Interview With Irene Fehr ERP 287: How To Engage In The Art Of Giving And Receiving: Using The Wheel Of Consent – An Interview With Dr. Betty Martin ERP 314: How To Work Through The Complexities Of Sexual Desire In Relationship — An Interview Martha Kauppi ERP 211: How To Get Rid of Shame to Increase Pleasure In The Bedroom – an Interview with Ian Ferguson Evolve in Love (link) (program) Connect with Dr. Jenn Gunsaullus Websites: drjennsden.com Facebook: facebook.com/jennifer.gunsaullus X: x.com/DrJennsDen YouTube: youtube.com/user/drjennsden LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/drjennsden Pinterest: pinterest.com/drjennsden Connect with Dr. Jessica Higgins Facebook: facebook.com/EmpoweredRelationship  Instagram: instagram.com/drjessicahiggins  Podcast: drjessicahiggins.com/podcasts/ Pinterest: pinterest.com/EmpowerRelation  LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/drjessicahiggins  Twitter: @DrJessHiggins  Website: drjessicahiggins.com   Email: jessica@drjessicahiggins.com If you have a topic you would like me to discuss, please contact me by clicking on the “Ask Dr. Jessica Higgins” button here.  Thank you so much for your interest in improving your relationship.  Also, I would so appreciate your honest rating and review. Please leave a review by clicking here.  Thank you!   *With Amazon Affiliate Links, I may earn a few cents from Amazon, if you purchase the book from this link.

Breakups—few life events are as universally painful and disorienting. They can make even the strongest among us feel powerless, consumed by obsessive thoughts and emotions. When relationships feel addictive, their end can trigger a withdrawal-like experience, leaving us caught in a whirlwind of grief and longing. But how do we distinguish between healthy attachments and these addictive patterns? How can we navigate the heartache while reclaiming our sense of self and stability? In this episode, we delve deep into the intricacies of love addiction and breakups, offering listeners tangible strategies to handle these challenges. Through enlightening conversations, we discuss how to recognize and manage obsessive post-breakup thoughts, differentiate between healthy and addictive relationship tendencies, and understand the underlying psychological mechanisms at play. By equipping listeners with cognitive and behavioral tools, the episode aims to provide a roadmap for moving forward, emphasizing personal growth and self-awareness as key components of healing. Cortney is a Board-Certified Clinical Psychologist. She received her Ph.D. in Psychology from Texas A&M University in 2006 after completing her internship at McLean Hospital/Harvard Medical School. Cortney is an expert in eating pathology, addictions, self-deception, and cultural diversity in Psychology. Check out the transcript of this episode on Dr. Jessica Higgin's website. In this episode 07:52 Identifying love addiction symptoms and who it affects. 10:50 The process of breaking free from addictive relationships. 14:40 Differentiating between healthy attachment and love addiction. 17:21 The reality of relationship phases and their emotional impact. 20:28 How breakups can trigger obsessive focus on ex-partners. 24:52 Recognizing love addiction in high-functioning individuals. 28:37 How early childhood influences love addiction patterns. 33:07 Dr. Warren’s personal journey toward relationship health. 35:26 How therapy and self-awareness help overcome relationship dysfunctions. 40:45 The concept of love as a necessary human experience. 43:57 Strategies for managing emotional distress post-breakup. 47:09 The role of cognitive-behavioral interventions in handling breakup symptoms. Mentioned Letting Go of Your Ex (*Amazon Affiliate link) (book) TEDx Talk Honest Liars: The Psychology of Self-Deception (*Youtube) (video) Evolve in Love (*Dr. Jessica Higgins program) (link) Connect with Dr. Cortney Warren Websites: drcortney.com/dr-cortney-warren Facebook: facebook.com/CortneySWarren X: x.com/DrCortneyWarren YouTube: youtube.com/playlist?list=PLQGXD7Ms5oR3GzsPZl3Tjl_9qj71MezHj Instagram: instagram.com/drcortneywarren/?hl=en LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/drcortney TikTok: tiktok.com/@drcortneywarren?lang=en Google Scholar: scholar.google.com/citations?user=Ka7bam4AAAAJ&hl=en Connect with Dr. Jessica Higgins Facebook: facebook.com/EmpoweredRelationship  Instagram: instagram.com/drjessicahiggins  Podcast: drjessicahiggins.com/podcasts/ Pinterest: pinterest.com/EmpowerRelation  LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/drjessicahiggins  Twitter: @DrJessHiggins  Website: drjessicahiggins.com   Email: jessica@drjessicahiggins.com If you have a topic you would like me to discuss, please contact me by clicking on the “Ask Dr. Jessica Higgins” button here.  Thank you so much for your interest in improving your relationship.  Also, I would so appreciate your honest rating and review. Please leave a review by clicking here.  Thank you!   *With Amazon Affiliate Links, I may earn a few cents from Amazon, if you purchase the book from this link.

Are you struggling to foster a deeper emotional connection with your partner? Relationship intimacy can be one of the most challenging yet rewarding aspects of a partnership. Many couples find themselves at a crossroads, wondering how to balance the demands of everyday life with the need for emotional and physical closeness. The pressure to maintain intimacy often leaves partners feeling disconnected and frustrated, particularly when unmet needs and unspoken expectations come into play. But what if there was a way to bridge this gap and intentionally build a relationship filled with clarity, connection, and mutual satisfaction? In this episode, we delve into practical strategies for enhancing vulnerability and emotional intimacy within your relationship. We'll explore how learning to meet each other's needs can transform your partnership, offering insights into overcoming common challenges such as gender stereotypes and differing intimacy styles. By embracing a holistic approach to intimacy, you can cultivate deeper connections and foster a more fulfilling, proactive relationship. Whether you're looking to redefine intimacy beyond just sex or seeking ways to communicate more effectively, this episode provides valuable guidance to help you intentionally design a thriving relationship. Pulling from their experiences personally in their 13+ years of marriage and professionally as a licensed counselor and certified coach, Angela and James Mitchell developed Love Intentionally to help couples design, implement, and sustain a conscious relationship rooted in depth and intimacy. Angela has been in the counseling field for over 20 years, working with abuse survivors, children, families, and couples. James is a transformational coach and lifelong entrepreneur, having helped hundreds of clients to live their best lives. Check out the transcript of this episode on Dr. Jessica Higgin's website. In this episode 08:56 Sharing the journey of opening up emotionally and strengthening connection. 12:12 The balance of emotional and physical intimacy to overcome gender stereotypes. 16:29 How a personal retreat evolved into DIY marriage retreats for intentional connection. 18:38 Exploring the importance of flexibility and openness in various forms of intimacy. 21:03 Understanding the holistic approach to intimacy, focusing on both emotional and physical closeness. 25:30 Introducing a key communication strategy called the "story in my head" technique for clearer dialogue. 27:34 The concept of creating a relationship North Star for maintaining a strategic partnership mindset. 31:39 Redefining intimacy beyond sex by exploring diverse intimacy styles. 34:08 The benefits of intentional planning by combining counseling principles with strategic life planning. 38:46 Addressing the challenges of balancing life's priorities while maintaining relationship focus. 43:57 Programs and methods for deepening intimacy. Mentioned ERP 211: How to Get Rid of Shame to Increase Pleasure in the Bedroom – An Interview with Ian Ferguson ERP 089: How to Use Love Languages to Strengthen Connection ERP 090: How To Use Love Languages To Strengthen Connection – Part Two ERP 303: How To Create Safe Conversations — An Interview With Drs. Harville Hendrix & Helen LaKelly Hunt ERP 323: One Of The Most Important Relationship Skills – Being Relational — An Interview With Terry Real Evolve in Love (*Dr. Jessica Higgins program) (link) Connect with Angela and James Mitchell Websites: loveintentionally.com Facebook: facebook.com/loveintentionally.co Instagram: instagram.com/loveintentionally.co Connect with Dr. Jessica Higgins Facebook: facebook.com/EmpoweredRelationship  Instagram: instagram.com/drjessicahiggins  Podcast: drjessicahiggins.com/podcasts/ Pinterest: pinterest.com/EmpowerRelation  LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/drjessicahiggins  Twitter: @DrJessHiggins  Website: drjessicahiggins.com   Email: jessica@drjessicahiggins.com If you have a topic you would like me to discuss, please contact me by clicking on the “Ask Dr. Jessica Higgins” button here.  Thank you so much for your interest in improving your relationship.  Also, I would so appreciate your honest rating and review. Please leave a review by clicking here.  Thank you!   *With Amazon Affiliate Links, I may earn a few cents from Amazon, if you purchase the book from this link.

Have you ever felt like the internal turmoil you're battling is invisible to the rest of the world? Like no one truly understands the gravity of what you're experiencing because you appear calm and composed on the outside? The struggle to manage anxiety while maintaining healthy relationships is a complex and often misunderstood journey. The challenge lies not only in dealing with the anxiety itself but also in finding ways to communicate your needs to those around you effectively. In this episode, we delve deep into the real-life experiences of someone who has navigated the tumultuous waters of anxiety for over seven years. It covers practical tools and resources for managing anxiety, the crucial distinction between everyday stress and anxiety disorders, and the importance of clear and compassionate communication in relationships. This discussion offers a plethora of actionable advice and relatable insights to help listeners better understand and manage their anxiety while nurturing their relationships. Dr. Jeanne Retief is the founder of FIGGI Beauty Skincare and The Anxious Calm E-Learning platform for those seeking to peacefully coexist with their anxiety. After her panic disorder diagnosis, she left behind her career in international human rights to find balance in her new normal. Check out the transcript of this episode on Dr. Jessica Higgin's website. In this episode 05:29 Jeanne Retief’s seven-year journey and finding balance. 08:05 The importance of hope and living in the present. 10:51 Introduction to figgy beauty and anxious calm resources. 14:31 Differentiating everyday stress from anxiety disorders. 19:37 Using code words for emotional communication. 22:52 The hidden turmoil of anxiety. 25:01 The reality of panic attacks. 27:32 Anxiety and its misrecognition. 32:18 Struggling with stigmatization and seeking help. 34:45 Relational dynamics and open communication. 38:30 Supporting each other during anxiety. 43:28 Explaining anxiety to children. 45:26 Discovering and embracing high sensitivity. Mentioned Evolve in Love (*Dr. Jessica Higgins program) (link) The Highly Sensitive Person: How to Thrive When the World Overwhelms You (Amazon affiliate link*) (book) Connect with Jeanne Retief Websites: figgibeauty.com | docjeanne.com Facebook: facebook.com/p/FIGGI-100075876828370/?paipv=0&eav=AfZJP7s4XjYP5eyIQKhkqlwpntG2pmLZtGWGUf_YVwVHncu6yHjrr1cOqWCuOxrdLAU&_rdr Pinterest: uk.pinterest.com/figgibeauty LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/dr-jeanne-retief Connect with Dr. Jessica Higgins Facebook: facebook.com/EmpoweredRelationship  Instagram: instagram.com/drjessicahiggins  Podcast: drjessicahiggins.com/podcasts/ Pinterest: pinterest.com/EmpowerRelation  LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/drjessicahiggins  Twitter: @DrJessHiggins  Website: drjessicahiggins.com   Email: jessica@drjessicahiggins.com If you have a topic you would like me to discuss, please contact me by clicking on the “Ask Dr. Jessica Higgins” button here.  Thank you so much for your interest in improving your relationship.  Also, I would so appreciate your honest rating and review. Please leave a review by clicking here.  Thank you!   *With Amazon Affiliate Links, I may earn a few cents from Amazon, if you purchase the book from this link.

Have you ever found yourself in the heat of an argument, only to later regret words spoken in anger? Or perhaps you have felt a simmering resentment beneath the surface, unable to express it constructively. Anger can be like a storm, sudden and tumultuous. It’s a potent emotion that, when mismanaged, can wreak havoc on even the most loving relationships. Anger is often seen as the villain, but beneath it lies a complex tapestry of emotions that, when understood, can lead to healthier and more fulfilling relationships. In this episode, we delve into strategies for managing anger and improving communication in relationships. You'll learn how to identify the warning signs of anger, take constructive time-outs, and engage in active listening to better understand your partner's perspective. Additionally, we explore the underlying emotions that often fuel anger and discuss how awareness and empathy can help break the cycle of conflict. By understanding and addressing these deeper feelings, you can foster a more harmonious and supportive relationship. Alastair Duhs is an anger management expert. Over the last 30 years, he has taught over 15,000 men and women how to control their anger. He is the founder of The Complete Anger Management System, a transformative coaching program that helps people control their anger in as little as 30 days. Alastair is the host of the Anger Secrets podcast, where he shares insights and strategies for effective anger management. Check out the transcript of this episode on Dr. Jessica Higgin's website. In this episode 07:43 Understanding the root of anger in relationships. 11:39 Developing effective communication strategies. 13:44 Gender differences in expressing emotions. 16:55 Exploring different forms of abuse. 22:35 The impact of emotional immaturity and resentment. 27:43 Recognizing and addressing avoidance in conflicts. 33:34 Short-term strategies for managing anger. 38:51 Long-term strategies for managing anger. 40:18 The role of stress management in healthy relationships. 42:59 Seeking help and the challenges involved. 46:54 Witnessing change through group therapy sessions. Mentioned Breaking The Anger Cycle (free training) (link) ERP 018: How to Deal With Feelings of Anger in Relationship ERP 450: How to Develop a Healthy Relationship with the Emotion of Anger — An Interview with Bronwyn Schweigerdt The 31-Day Kindness Challenge (free guide) (pdf) Connect with Alastair Duhs Websites: angersecrets.com Podcast: angersecrets.com/podcast Connect with Dr. Jessica Higgins Facebook: facebook.com/EmpoweredRelationship  Instagram: instagram.com/drjessicahiggins  Podcast: drjessicahiggins.com/podcasts/ Pinterest: pinterest.com/EmpowerRelation  LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/drjessicahiggins  Twitter: @DrJessHiggins  Website: drjessicahiggins.com   Email: jessica@drjessicahiggins.com If you have a topic you would like me to discuss, please contact me by clicking on the “Ask Dr. Jessica Higgins” button here.  Thank you so much for your interest in improving your relationship.  Also, I would so appreciate your honest rating and review. Please leave a review by clicking here.  Thank you!   *With Amazon Affiliate Links, I may earn a few cents from Amazon, if you purchase the book from this link.

Are you truly being yourself, or are you performing roles shaped by survival mechanisms and societal expectations? This thought-provoking question invites us to pause and reflect on our authenticity, encouraging a journey toward discovering our true selves and aligning our actions with our intrinsic purpose, not just external achievements. In this episode, we explore the journey to discovering one’s authentic self and aligning actions with that inner truth. We delve into the difference between traditional relationships, which may be rooted in outdated values, and spiritual relationships that encourage personal growth and genuine emotional expression. By emphasizing self-talk, introspection, and breaking free from past experiences, this conversation aims to guide listeners toward more fulfilled, purposeful living and deep, meaningful connections. As a life and relationship coach since 1995, Dr. Ray Doktor has empowered over 6,000 clients to break through limiting beliefs and overcome life's challenges, significantly enhancing their confidence, self-trust, and happiness. Holding a doctorate in clinical psychology, a master's in counseling psychology, and a bachelor's in human behavior, Dr. Ray combines his extensive expertise with advanced techniques like hypnotherapy, EMDR, NLP, and ancient practices such as qigong and meditation to offer a holistic approach to mental well-being. Check out the transcript of this episode on Dr. Jessica Higgin's website. In this episode 08:27 Discovering authenticity: Aligning actions with true self.  12:15 The impact of survival mechanisms on personal and relational satisfaction.  18:16 Embracing spiritual relationships for sustainable personal growth.  21:01 Healing childhood patterns to enhance relationship dynamics.  23:28 Defining and nurturing a spiritual partnership.  27:47 Balancing masculine and feminine energies within relationships.  31:37 Overcoming gender role limitations in modern relationships.  34:31 Integrating spiritual beliefs into everyday life and relationships.  37:57 The importance of trust and vulnerability in fostering emotional intimacy.  41:23 Techniques for developing deeper connection and self-awareness.  44:19 Moving beyond traditional norms to achieve relational fulfillment.  47:59 Understanding one’s needs and expectations in a relationship.  50:45 Authentic relating games: Tools for self-discovery and emotional growth. Mentioned All It Takes Is One (*Amazon Affiliate link) (book) All It Takes Is One (book order page) The Seat of the Soul (*Amazon Affiliate link) (book) ERP 277: How to Cultivate More ‘Authentic Relating’ in Relationship – An Interview with Sara Ness The 31-Day Kindness Challenge (free guide) (pdf) Connect with Dr. Ray Doktor Websites: raydoktor.com Facebook: facebook.com/raydoktor YouTube: youtube.com/raydoktor Instagram: instagram.com/drraydoktorcoaching TikTok: tiktok.com/@raydoktor Connect with Dr. Jessica Higgins Facebook: facebook.com/EmpoweredRelationship  Instagram: instagram.com/drjessicahiggins  Podcast: drjessicahiggins.com/podcasts/ Pinterest: pinterest.com/EmpowerRelation  LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/drjessicahiggins  Twitter: @DrJessHiggins  Website: drjessicahiggins.com   Email: jessica@drjessicahiggins.com If you have a topic you would like me to discuss, please contact me by clicking on the “Ask Dr. Jessica Higgins” button here.  Thank you so much for your interest in improving your relationship.  Also, I would so appreciate your honest rating and review. Please leave a review by clicking here.  Thank you!   *With Amazon Affiliate Links, I may earn a few cents from Amazon, if you purchase the book from this link.

Navigating the tumultuous seas of grief and maintaining long-term relationships is no small feat. Whether it's dealing with the loss of a loved one, experiencing the invisible wounds of unacknowledged grief, or simply trying to find a balance between independence and partnership, many find themselves overwhelmed. How does one transition from anger to trust, from isolation to intimacy, while respecting the complexities of their emotions and relational dynamics? In this episode, we'll explore practical strategies and heartfelt insights to help you navigate these challenging waters. Discover how personal spirituality, a scientific mindset, and philosophical wisdom can intertwine to provide guidance and support on your journey. Learn about the life reentry process, understand the concept of invisible losses, and gain valuable advice on shifting perspectives to unlock the potential for fulfilling relationships and personal growth. Through real-life experiences of overcoming profound grief and the transformative power of vulnerability, this episode offers a beacon for those seeking a path from survival to thriving in their emotional and relational lives. Christina Rasmussen is an acclaimed grief educator and bestselling author of Second Firsts (Hay House, 2013), Where Did You Go? (Harper One, 2018), and Invisible Loss (Sounds True, 2024). In 2010, four years after her spouse passed away from Stage 4 colon cancer, she created the Life Reentry process. Christina holds a master’s degree in guidance and counseling (University of Durham). She is finishing her master of fine arts degree in painting and drawing (Academy of Art). Check out the transcript of this episode on Dr. Jessica Higgin's website. In this episode 9:49 Christina’s journey from the corporate world to grief author. 14:33 The role of intuition and the universe’s support. 19:23 Navigating new relationships after loss. 27:05 How people often remain in survival mode after trauma, not recognizing the potential for a fulfilling life beyond their past hardships. 28:20 Identifying and addressing invisible losses. 37:51 The complexities of balancing financial independence and trust in new relationships. 43:42 Long-term relationship dynamics continuous growth and understanding within marriage. 48:59 The concept of invisible loss: Unseen griefs and their impact on life progress. 50:33 Hope and transformation through life reentry: Shifting perspectives and embracing future possibilities. Mentioned Invisible Loss (*Amazon Affiliate link) (book) Second Firsts (*Amazon Affiliate link) (book) Where Did You Go? (*Amazon Affiliate link) (book) Life Reentry (website) The 31-Day Kindness Challenge (free guide) (pdf) Connect with Christina Rasmussen Websites: christinarasmussen.com Facebook: facebook.com/Secondfirsts X: x.com/Secondfirsts Instagram: instagram.com/christinarasmussen7 Connect with Dr. Jessica Higgins Facebook: facebook.com/EmpoweredRelationship  Instagram: instagram.com/drjessicahiggins  Podcast: drjessicahiggins.com/podcasts/ Pinterest: pinterest.com/EmpowerRelation  LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/drjessicahiggins  Twitter: @DrJessHiggins  Website: drjessicahiggins.com   Email: jessica@drjessicahiggins.com If you have a topic you would like me to discuss, please contact me by clicking on the “Ask Dr. Jessica Higgins” button here.  Thank you so much for your interest in improving your relationship.  Also, I would so appreciate your honest rating and review. Please leave a review by clicking here.  Thank you!   *With Amazon Affiliate Links, I may earn a few cents from Amazon, if you purchase the book from this link.

As the winter season unfolds and the holidays bring their usual whirlwind of activity, it’s easy to lose sight of what truly matters. Amid the gift shopping, party planning, and packed schedules, the essence of connection and kindness often gets overshadowed. Yet, this time of year offers a unique opportunity to refocus on the deeper values that make life meaningful. In 2017, a 5-part series titled "How Kindness Can Strengthen Your Love" introduced a new take on the traditional Advent calendar, encouraging readers to practice one small act of kindness each day in December. This season, the focus returns to kindness—not just as a gift to others, but as a transformative practice for self-compassion and relationship growth. Research shows that the key to lasting, fulfilling relationships isn’t extravagant gestures—it’s simple acts of kindness and generosity. Studies reveal that kindness, along with emotional stability, is the most important predictor of satisfaction and stability in relationships. What's more, giving kindness often benefits the giver even more than the receiver. In this episode, we dive into the power of kindness and how it creates a ripple effect, spreading positivity and inspiring goodwill. We’ll explore how kindness strengthens relationships, nurtures emotional well-being, and can be cultivated like a muscle to improve our connections and our lives. Join us as we reflect on how kindness can be the greatest gift we give this holiday season—and beyond. Check out the transcript of this episode on Dr. Jessica Higgin's website. In this episode 06:31 Making a habit of spreading good vibes. 08:08 How kindness benefits both the giver and the receiver significantly. 14:51 Understanding emotional awareness in relationships. 19:26 The impact of gentleness and compassion in communication. 21:26 Navigating intimate dynamics with increased mindfulness. 27:21 How kindness transforms perspectives and priorities. 32:56 The science behind kindness and personal Well-being. 38:41 Kindness as a path to sustainable happiness. 41:40 Strategies for integrating kindness into daily life. Mentioned ERP 125: How Kindness Can Strengthen Your Love ERP 128: How Kindness Can Strengthen Your Love – Part Two ERP 129: How Kindness Can Strengthen Your Love – Part Three ERP 130: How Kindness Can Strengthen Your Love – Part Four ERP 131: How Kindness Can Strengthen Your Love – Part Five The 31-Day Kindness Challenge (free guide) (pdf) Connect with Dr. Jessica Higgins Facebook: facebook.com/EmpoweredRelationship  Instagram: instagram.com/drjessicahiggins  Podcast: drjessicahiggins.com/podcasts/ Pinterest: pinterest.com/EmpowerRelation  LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/drjessicahiggins  Twitter: @DrJessHiggins  Website: drjessicahiggins.com   Email: jessica@drjessicahiggins.com If you have a topic you would like me to discuss, please contact me by clicking on the “Ask Dr. Jessica Higgins” button here.  Thank you so much for your interest in improving your relationship.  Also, I would so appreciate your honest rating and review. Please leave a review by clicking here.  Thank you!   *With Amazon Affiliate Links, I may earn a few cents from Amazon, if you purchase the book from this link.

Emotional wounds from early relationships often cast long shadows over our adult lives, manifesting in unexpected ways. Whether it's feeling an inexplicable sense of burnout not tied to work, struggling with co-dependency, or recognizing recurring patterns of avoidance and anxiety in relationships, these issues are all too familiar but profoundly challenging. However, the road to healing and understanding these ingrained patterns doesn't have to be walked alone. In this episode, we delve deep into how early family dynamics and childhood experiences shape our emotional and physical well-being as adults. You'll learn how unaddressed attachment issues can trigger stress responses and lead to health problems, the importance of setting boundaries, and the power of emotional attunement in fostering healthier relationships. Additionally, through real-life stories and professional insights, you'll discover strategies to overcome these deep-rooted challenges, nurture personal growth, and ultimately, build more resilient and fulfilling relationships. Jen and Karden are seasoned mind-body practitioners who have experienced chronic pain and fatigue. Jen is an expert in the field of treating psychophysiological disorders and Karden specializes in somatic trauma therapies. Together, they co-founded the esteemed healing collective SOMIA where they have helped thousands of individuals regulate their nervous systems and heal. Check out the transcript of this episode on Dr. Jessica Higgin's website. In this episode 6:54 Exploring the impact of relational dynamics on healing and nervous system regulation. 18:54 Navigating attachment styles and emotional triggers in collaborative healing. 34:43 Embracing accountability: How self-awareness and validation promote relational healing. 43:02 The importance of setting healthy boundaries within oneself as a means of emotional regulation, particularly in the context of parenting. 49:53 How awareness with others impacts relationships and friendships. 52:49 How subtle childhood experiences can shape adult triggers and unmet needs in relationships. 58:15 The Secret Language of the Body. Mentioned The Secret Language of the Body: Regulate Your Nervous System, Heal Your Body, Free Your Mind ****(*Amazon Affiliate link) (book) Relationship Map To Happy, Lasting Love Connect with Jennifer Mann and Karden Rabin Websites: somiainternational.com Instagram: instagram.com/iamjenmann | instagram.com/kardenrabin Connect with Dr. Jessica Higgins Facebook: facebook.com/EmpoweredRelationship  Instagram: instagram.com/drjessicahiggins  Podcast: drjessicahiggins.com/podcasts/ Pinterest: pinterest.com/EmpowerRelation  LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/drjessicahiggins  Twitter: @DrJessHiggins  Website: drjessicahiggins.com   Email: jessica@drjessicahiggins.com If you have a topic you would like me to discuss, please contact me by clicking on the “Ask Dr. Jessica Higgins” button here.  Thank you so much for your interest in improving your relationship.  Also, I would so appreciate your honest rating and review. Please leave a review by clicking here.  Thank you!   *With Amazon Affiliate Links, I may earn a few cents from Amazon, if you purchase the book from this link.

We've all been there—feeling misunderstood, hurt, or betrayed by those closest to us, which can lead to bottled-up resentment or explosive outbursts. But what if anger wasn't just a destructive force, but a powerful signal pointing us toward deeper healing and understanding? Let's dive into how embracing and channeling our anger can transform our relationships and emotional well-being. In this episode, we explore how viewing emotional experiences as a spectrum can unlock the door to more genuine vulnerability and meaningful connections. Techniques from the attachment EFT framework will guide you in expressing your deepest feelings in constructive ways. We'll also delve into understanding anger as both a primary and secondary emotion, uncovering its roots in betrayal and rejection, and offering practical exercises to help you process and validate your emotions. By the end, you'll have tangible tools and insights to nurture healthier, more empathetic relationships, while fostering continuous personal growth. Bronwyn Schweigerdt is a licensed psychotherapist, podcaster, and anger expert. She has a master's in counseling and another master's in nutrition. Check out the transcript of this episode on Dr. Jessica Higgin's website. In this episode 07:14 Understanding the spectrum of emotional experiences and their impact on relationships. 10:31 Understanding anger: Primary vs. secondary emotions. 12:49 The importance of recognizing and constructively expressing anger before it builds up to an outburst. 16:08 How to discern safe individuals from unsafe ones based on their response to feedback or emotional vulnerability. 21:48 How past betrayals and childhood experiences influence adult emotional responses. 30:42 Exploring the connections between anger, betrayal, and healing in adult relationships. 42:41 Distinguishing personal triggers from external behaviors. 45:04 Strategies for supporting a partner who is expressing anger but may not be using it as an opportunity for self-awareness or growth. 48:45 Exploring self-discovery: Insights from the podcast Angry at the Right Things. Mentioned Shifting Criticism For Connected Communication Connect with Bronwyn Schweigerdt Websites: angryattherightthings.podbean.com Connect with Dr. Jessica Higgins Facebook: facebook.com/EmpoweredRelationship  Instagram: instagram.com/drjessicahiggins  Podcast: drjessicahiggins.com/podcasts/ Pinterest: pinterest.com/EmpowerRelation  LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/drjessicahiggins  Twitter: @DrJessHiggins  Website: drjessicahiggins.com   Email: jessica@drjessicahiggins.com If you have a topic you would like me to discuss, please contact me by clicking on the “Ask Dr. Jessica Higgins” button here.  Thank you so much for your interest in improving your relationship.  Also, I would so appreciate your honest rating and review. Please leave a review by clicking here.  Thank you!   *With Amazon Affiliate Links, I may earn a few cents from Amazon, if you purchase the book from this link.