Life is a confusing whirlwind of emotions; love and loss, joy and sorrow, success and failure. Navigating through all the highs and lows--personally and in our relationships--can be overwhelming. Furthermore, sometimes it can be hard to know how to effectively show our partners that we are present and connected to them, whether we are in the midst of trouble or simply enjoying happy moments together.
Remaining emotionally present in our intimate relationships is an on-going practice. The more we use it, the better our connection with our partners and the deeper our understanding of their emotions will become. Here we will look at several ways to stay emotionally present in our relationships, so that we are both able to cope with life’s challenges together and savor the beauty of its moments.
The first is self-awareness. It is important to be aware and present in your own emotional life. This means understanding your reactions and distinguishing between your needs, hopes and fears. Being self-aware sets the stage for being emotionally present with your partner by inviting you to recognize subtle cues that can give you insight into your partner’s emotional state. From there, you can begin to draw conclusions about how your partner is feeling.
The next way to remain present in your relationship is by making space for both grief and joy. Life has its ups and downs and it’s essential to provide support in both times. When difficulties come, create a safe space for both partners to talk honestly about their feelings. Making time for your partner’s difficult emotions can give them the opportunity to share their inner world in an honest and meaningful way. And when joy rains down, cherish it. Seize opportunities to rejoice together and celebrate your successes with each other.
Another way to stay emotionally present with your partner is through active listening. Actively listening means giving full attention to what they are saying, without judgment or criticism. When you listen actively, your partner’s words may hold clues as to how they are feeling. When possible, offer them positive affirmations or solutions as well. Avoiding assumptions or statements of guilt or blame can make these conversations more productive and inviting.
It’s also important to be mindful of body language. Non-verbal communication is usually a stronger indication of what someone is actually thinking than verbal communication. Pay attention to signs such as facial expressions, slumped shoulders, and tension. Consider whether this posture fits the conversation that is taking place and if not, inquire about their emotions in a non-accusatory way. Additionally, a gentle touch like holding their hand may provide comfort to your partner in difficult moments.
Finally, creating sacred moments for just the two of you is essential for maintaining closeness and developing understanding. Take the time to switch off from any distracting social media and daily worries and dedicate quality time to just the two of you. This can be as simple as a slow dance in the kitchen or a wander around the park looking up at the stars. Providing your partner with undivided attention allows you to become more familiar with each other's emotions.
Relationships need constant tending and fostering. Allowing yourself to be emotionally present in your relationships helps build love, trust, and connection. With practice, intentional listening, and increased emotional awareness, you both can grow stronger together.
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