DIMENSIONS
Happily Married: Advice from Relationship Experts and Long-Time Couples It’s no secret that healthy relationships are one of the biggest keys to unlocking happiness. Yet, despite our best efforts, building and maintaining them can sometimes be hard. Human connection specialist Mark Groves explains that creating exceptional relationships is a skill that can be learned. It starts with taking full responsibility for your side of the relationship and what you’re willing to allow in your life. Groves recommends doing the following: Recognize what you do or tolerate from others that hurts you or other people Process the feelings that emerge from facing how you’ve shown up in relationships Transform emotions like fear and hurt into growth Once you believe your actions have an impact is when you can start making changes toward a healthy relationship.
Habits to Strengthen Your Relationship Relationships are a two-way street, and effort must come from both sides. Each relationship is unique, but there are small habits couples can take to strengthen their bond. For example, psychotherapist Amy Morin suggests practicing gratitude together. It can be as simple as sharing you’re thankful your friend brought you a cup of coffee or your neighbor moved your trash bins for you. “When you share those things with your partner, not only does it boost your mood, it boosts theirs,” she explains. Relationship expert Sara Nasserzadeh also observed successful couples make time for what she calls “oy and joy.” “Oy are the things that brought you sadness and joy is what brought you a smile,” she says. This tactic offers a framework for connection, gives both partners an opportunity to talk, and provides the space to vent while ensuring the conversation ends on a positive note. CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE
VOL. 11 | ISSUE 2
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APRIL 2026