Core Needs: Understanding the NeedsEvery person has fundamental emotional needs that, when met, foster strong, healthy relationships. These core needs—comfort, acceptance, affection, appreciation, approval, attention, respect, encouragement, security, and support—are essential for connection and well-being. Below are their definitions: Comfort – To soothe, console, or reassure. Responding to a hurting person with words, feelings, and touch.

Childhood experiences shape us in profound ways, often influencing how we love, trust, and connect in adulthood. Research shows that nearly 60% of adults report experiencing at least one adverse childhood experience (ACE), and studies suggest that unresolved childhood trauma significantly impacts relationship dynamics. Those who have faced emotional neglect, abandonment, or abuse as children

Mental health and relationships are deeply interconnected. Research shows that individuals with untreated mental health struggles, such as anxiety or depression, are at a higher risk for relationship distress. In fact, nearly 40% of divorced couples cite mental health issues as a major factor in their separation. The way we manage stress, process emotions, and

EmptinessThe holidays are often painted as a season of joy, celebration, and connection, but for many, it can be a time when emptiness feels especially heavy. The glittering lights and festive music can serve as painful reminders of what feels absent—a sense of peace, purpose, or God’s presence. Emptiness during the holidays can stem from

Relationships thrive when we feel understood and valued, but sometimes it seems like we’re speaking different languages when it comes to love. That’s where Dr. Gary Chapman’s concept of the 5 Love Languages comes in. The idea is simple: each person has a unique way of giving and receiving love, and when we learn to

Curiosity is a wonderful spark in a relationship. This week, take the opportunity to dive deeper by asking meaningful questions that go beyond the daily routine. Whether it’s about dreams, values, or past experiences, these questions can unlock new levels of understanding and connection. Often, it’s the questions we ask that create the memories we