How do you heal a relationship?

Answered by Antonio Sutton

Healing a relationship after a rough patch can be a challenging and delicate process. It requires effort, patience, and open communication from both partners. Here are six tips to help you navigate this journey:

1. Trust until you have reason not to: Trust is the foundation of any healthy relationship. It may have been broken during the rough patch, but in order to heal, you must be willing to trust your partner again. Give them the benefit of the doubt unless they give you a valid reason not to.

2. Touch each other more often: Physical touch is a powerful way to reconnect with your partner and rebuild intimacy. Hold hands, hug, cuddle, or give each other massages. These actions can help release oxytocin, the bonding hormone, and create a sense of closeness.

3. Address the reality of your relationship: It’s important to acknowledge that your relationship may not be the perfect fairytale you envisioned. Accepting the reality of your relationship, including its flaws and imperfections, can help you move forward and work towards improving it.

4. Choose to forgive and forget: Forgiveness is crucial for healing a relationship. It allows you to let go of past hurts and move towards a healthier future. However, forgiveness should not be used as a weapon to bring up past mistakes later on. Once you choose to forgive, it’s important to truly let go and not hold onto resentment.

5. Be mindful of your words: In the process of healing, it’s important to be mindful of what you say. Avoid saying hurtful things or using words as weapons. Instead, focus on constructive communication and expressing your feelings in a calm and respectful manner.

6. Seek professional help if needed: Sometimes, healing a relationship requires professional guidance. If you and your partner are struggling to move past the rough patch on your own, consider seeking the help of a couples therapist or counselor. They can provide you with tools and strategies to navigate the healing process effectively.

Remember, healing a relationship takes time and effort from both partners. It’s essential to be patient, compassionate, and committed to the process. With open communication, trust, and a willingness to work through challenges, you can heal your relationship and create a stronger bond.