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I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and have been practicing for over 16 years. I am specialized in couples therapy and work with individuals as well. When I work with clients I teach them necessary skills to improve not only their relationships but themselves as well. My hope is for my clients to make changes that will make them healthier individuals which will then make their relationships healthier and happier. If you're interested in obtaining information, setting up an appointment, or learning more about my practice please visit my website at www.therapywithanita.com you can also go to my page on psychology today at http://Therapists.PsychologyToday.com/rms/79368

Thursday, August 2, 2012

Just Checking In

For my post today, I’m checking in with you!!  I want to make sure you are working on keeping your connection with your partner strong.  It is common for couples to make some change and then revert back to old habits, thus the importance of maintaining your relationship!  I always say it’s like your car, you maintain your car by cleaning it, changing the oil, putting in gas…..you care for it.  If you don’t do these things for your car it won’t run right and/or may even stop running.    It’s the same for your relationship!  You both need to maintain it to keep it running right! 

Things you can do to maintain your relationship;
Try what I am doing now (checking in) with your partner, in a slightly different way.  Checking in is as simple as saying to each other, “do you feel cared about by me” or “do you feel loved by me” or “how do you feel about things lately.”  Checking in is a good way to bring up issues, bring up good things happening, keeps communication open, keeps you both on the same page, and keeps you connected.    

Another good way of keeping your connection strong is by engaging in activities together.  Here are some suggested activities that you can pick from.  Try to do one of these activities a week!

-        Go for an evening walk
-        Lay out a blanket in the yard and look at the stars together
-        Play some music and share a dance
-        Go to the beach and swim in the ocean
-        Plan a picnic or go to a concert
-        Play a game of cards or a board game
-        Go for a hike or bike ride
-        Take a trip to the zoo or your local farm
-        Play a game of mini golf.

Remember you do not need to go out and spend money to connect with one another.  Engaging in simple activities around the house, like cooking dinner together, will keep you connected.  Be creative and have fun!  After a week, check in with one another and see how you feel.