Nine best love tips from 2021

The last two years have been very unpredictable and full of trials and tribulations. All couples who have stayed together can be proud, and to improve relationships, these are some of the best love tips.

Show gratitude to each other every day

 In relationships, the strong practice of respect is a great way to ward off resentment and criticism. Expressing gratitude to your partner on a daily basis will create a reserve of generosity and trust, which will serve during the inevitable moments of conflict explains Jordan Dann, a licensed psychoanalyst.

One of the best things you can do in a relationship is to find a balance between connectedness and autonomy

Two important movements for us are autonomy (control of individuality) and attachment. Healthy maturation means we are able to achieve both and balance them. This ability is called differentiation. Differentiation is a biological process that occurs in all species. For people, it’s about becoming more of an individual and a solid person through relationships with others. It is the ability to separate from others, says Jordan Dann, a licensed psychoanalyst.

Yes, there are times when you can be friends with an ex, but not always

Being friends with an ex can be a good idea when other aspects of the relationship have been valuable to your growth, development, or life goals. If you and your ex find that you are better business partners or friends and able to maintain healthy boundaries with each other, then friendship could work. If you find that you can't maintain a healthy relationship with each other, you should end all relationships, says Weena Cullins, a marriage therapist.

Stop worrying about how much sex you have and focus on how much intimacy you have

The meaning of sex is to share pleasure with your partner and feel connected. Spend intimate time together, without the pressure to achieve a goal or do a certain thing. You don't need a plan. Get inspired in the moment and do what you want, says Jessa Zimmerman, a sex therapist.

‘Opening Awareness’ can help you deepen your relationship and resolve disputes faster

The problem with conflict resolution is that they lack awareness of what is actually happening to you and your partner in the present. During a conflict, start paying attention at all times while talking to your partner. Notice your sense of openness or closedness, advises Kathryn Ford, a licensed psychotherapist.

Understand the difference between love and limerence

Love is rooted in connection, intimacy, reciprocity, and reality, while limerence is rooted in possession, obsession, jealousy, and delusions, says Silva Depanian, a marital and family therapist.

If you are struggling with addiction, focus on releasing attachment

Releasing attachment requires a willingness to tolerate the unknown and live with insecurity. Part of what keeps a relationship going is the fear of disappointing someone whose opinion matters to you. You just need to learn that sometimes you can disappoint others to be freer to be what you are, says Alicia Muñoz, a therapist.

Never stop dancing with each other

Dancing is harmonization. It’s one of those things you can do and be bad at the same time. It energizes you. It revives you, says Esther Perel, a psychotherapist, and renowned relationship expert.

Try to stay curious about your partner and keep getting to know him

Instead of looking for what you know, look for something that is different in some way with them, advises Samantha Boardman, a psychiatrist.