In a world dominated by the binaries of monogamy and polyamory, many feel confined by these traditional labels. While both have their merits and their advocates, there’s a growing call for a middle ground—something that transcends the extremes and allows for a more integrated, flexible approach to relationships.
The pursuit of romantic love is a fundamental human experience. We seek partners who make us happy, support our dreams, and share our lives. But how we perceive those partners plays a crucial role in determining the success and longevity of our relationships. Two prominent theories, positive illusions and shared
These excerpts from two academic articles delve into the complex interplay between self-esteem, perceived partner regard, and relationship dynamics. The research presented highlights how feeling valued and loved by one's partner can significantly impact both relationship satisfaction and individual self-worth. Here are some key takeaways: * Self-esteem plays a
We've all heard the saying, "love is blind," and research suggests there might be some truth to it. The concept of idealization, also known as positive illusions, describes how individuals in romantic relationships often view their partners more positively than the partners view themselves. This can
Society tells us there's only one way to love: find "The One," get married, and live happily ever after. This idea, called mononormativity, is so ingrained in our culture that we rarely question it. But what if this narrow view of relationships is actually holding women
Don Miguel Ruiz's "The Mastery of Love" delves into the intricacies of human relationships, exploring the depths of our emotional wounds and offering a pathway to healing and genuine love. Drawing upon Toltec wisdom, the book paints a vivid picture of the human mind as infected
NVC, or Nonviolent Communication, is a powerful communication process that can help families connect more deeply and resolve conflicts peacefully. It is based on the idea that all human beings have needs, and that conflicts arise when those needs are not being met. NVC teaches people to identify and express
Have you ever noticed how passion seems to fade over time in relationships? You fall head over heels in love, but eventually those intense feelings subside, sometimes leading to frustration, arguments, and even breakups. The author of Cupid's Poisoned Arrow suggests that this isn't just bad
This article synthesizes findings from three academic papers exploring consensually non-monogamous (CNM) relationships, with a specific focus on polyamory. While one paper delves into the unique and shared benefits individuals experience in CNM and monogamous relationships, the other two papers center on the diverse motivations driving individuals towards polyamory and
"Nonviolent Communication: A Language of Life" by Marshall B. Rosenberg, PhD, is a powerful exploration of compassionate communication that transcends mere words. It delves into the depths of human connection, offering a framework for understanding ourselves and others in a way that fosters empathy and understanding, even amidst
A new study published in the Archives of Sexual Behavior explores what leads people to choose polyamorous relationships. Polyamory, as defined by the study, is a relationship style where partners have open and honest agreements to have romantic and/or sexual relationships with multiple people at the same time. Contrary
Sex at Dawn: The Prehistoric Origins of Modern Sexuality, by Christopher Ryan and Cacilda Jethá, presents a controversial challenge to traditional narratives about human sexual evolution. The book argues that humans evolved in egalitarian groups where sharing extended to sex, contradicting the prevailing view of monogamy as our natural state.
This book is a guide for couples to experience more pleasure, health, and intimacy in their relationship. It explores Taoist sexuality, also called the “Arts of the Bedchamber,” a three-thousand-year-old tradition that focuses on male multiple orgasms and other secrets of sexual satisfaction. The authors stumbled upon Taoist sexuality when
This blog post accompanies the audio overview podcast for the book "Polysecure: Attachment, Trauma and Consensual Nonmonogamy" by Jessica Fern. The book explores the intersection of attachment theory and consensual non-monogamy (CNM) relationships. It is a valuable resource for therapists, individuals, and couples navigating the complexities of CNM.
In today's fast-paced world, it can be difficult to find time for ourselves to connect with our inner selves, others, and the natural world. Humandalas offer a powerful and engaging way to do just that. Humandalas are a guided group meditation technique that is designed to foster connection,
In the ever-evolving landscape of human connection, non-monogamy offers a spectrum of possibilities. It’s an umbrella term encompassing many ways of relating, from swinging to polyamory, open relationships, relationship anarchy, and more. At its core, non-monogamy invites us to move beyond societal norms and explore what feels most authentic