Practical Advice from Marriage Therapists for a Better Year and a Better Life

At the beginning of every year, we promise to be better to ourselves and others, to exercise, eat healthy, and sleep well. Hoping this year will be different, here are practical suggestions from marriage

therapists to improve your relationships and overall well-being.

Vivi Shmueli: The relationship is a couple's responsibility, but accepting personal responsibility for your part will allow you to connect with your partner in a mature and intimate way.

Mili Lev: Vulnerability is an inevitable and natural part of a marital relationship's development. It is crucial to know, "Will you be here for me despite my flaws?" and "Will you survive them and still love me?"

Nitzan Israeli: Choosing a spouse is a profound decision. Sometimes, when we think we've made a mistake, we have the opportunity to heal old wounds. During conflicts, remember that crises can help you make amends. Observe your partner's expressions, voice, and body language. Also, examine your own feelings beneath the anger and criticism. This awareness helps you feel closer and less judgmental.

Miri Shekhnai: A happy relationship, like happy parenthood, is based on love, understanding, appreciation, and support. English psychiatrist John Bowlby said, "From the cradle to the grave, we have the same emotional needs." Recent brain research supports this, making a happy relationship realistic and attainable.

Emily Byrne: When your partner walks in at the end of the day, lift your head, smile, and greet them. This small act shows they matter to you. When they share something, avoid giving advice immediately. Sit by their side, listen, and show understanding. Emotional closeness is more important than money, sex, or children.

Hilit Kadosh: Be open to changes. Your life together will last many years, during which both you and the reality around you will change. Don't start a relationship with fixed expectations. Enjoy the journey together.

Ofra Kola: Love needs a loving touch, not just sex. Give each other hugs, caresses, and long kisses. Spend 20 minutes a day connecting over a cup of coffee to preserve intimacy and romance.

Diana Idelman: Love is a sensory experience. Eyes that observe, hands that touch, and attentive ears express love more than words. Recognition and gratitude make most couples feel loved. Learn from divorced friends: sometimes one parent should take the kids for a trip, giving the other some alone time. 

Aya Schmidt: Maintaining love and close relationships is challenging. Sometimes, put your partner's needs before your own, even in sex. When your partner wants sex, they seek connection. Not cooperating can create feelings of loneliness and insecurity. Remember, sex isn't just about passion; desire can be stimulated by affection, interest, and touch.

Ayala Arieli: Quarrels and anger are like foam on the waves. Look beneath them to see what causes them.

Ayala Gasko: To rekindle desire for your partner, observe them doing something they are good at and enjoy. If you went to bed angry, watch your partner sleep to rediscover their qualities. 

Hananal Ross: Unfortunately, spouses are not mind readers.

Hadas Gruper: Starting a conversation with "you" or "you" leads nowhere. When one "wins" an argument, the other loses, resulting in anger, resentment, and distance.

Diana Glaser: Express your anger. If you need to leave, say, "I'm angry. I'm going out now, and we'll talk later." Reserve the bedroom for sleep, sex, and pampering. Speak only when calm. Avoid important conversations when hungry, tired, or angry.

Amalia Rosenblum's Recommendations:

Book: Love, Medicine and Miracles by Dr. Bernie Siegel, a pioneer of empathy, positive thinking, and the power of consciousness in maintaining health. 

Video: Prof. Avi Elkayim in "Bein the Suns," discussing the dangers and insights of mystical practices.

Game for the Whole Family: Geoguessr - a fun challenge to identify locations using Google Maps.

Enjoy a Better Year: Embrace these insights and practical tips to improve your relationships and overall well-being.