"Listen-really listen. That means giving them your openminded, genuinely interested attention, according to mindful communication experts Hope Martin and David Rome. Take the time to fully absorb what they're saying. Body language, word choice, tone of voice-you'll be amazed at what you may have been missing. Offer your full presence when you're together. Don't look at your phone. Show love by showing up fully, without distractions."
"Resist the usual complaining about work. Slipping onto autopilot-a you-do-this/ I-do-that dynamic-is no fun and can erode any relationship, says Marsha Lucas, a neuropsychologist and the author of Rewire Your Brain for Love. Value the little things someone does for you-and do some in return. Relationship coach Josh Wise suggests that couples take gratitude a step further: discuss the kindnesses you receive and how that makes you feel."
"In this way, you get to multiply the effect of thoughtful actions-first by experiencing it, then by sharing it, and then again by noticing how your recognition lifts the other person up. Empathy. It's a necessary ingredient for healthier relationships of all kinds. According to psychologist Ronald Siegel in The Mindfulness Solution, "When we can actually be with someone and empathize with his or her experience, even when it's painful, the relationship deepens.""
February spending in the United States reaches about $18 billion on flowers, chocolates, gifts, and restaurants. The month offers an opportunity to celebrate love with simple, free, mindful actions. Practice deep listening by offering open-minded, genuinely interested attention and absorbing body language, word choice, and tone. Offer full presence by avoiding phones and resisting autopilot routines and complaint-driven dynamics. Notice and value small acts of kindness and reciprocate them, and discuss how those kindnesses make you feel to magnify their effect. Cultivate empathy by being with another's experience, even when painful, to deepen relationships of all kinds.
Read at Mindful
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