Remaining emotionally connected in a relationship is important. High levels of emotional connection lead to higher satisfaction levels and less conflict. This is because partners feel heard, understood, cared for, and respected.
One way to increase emotional connection in your relationship is by turning towards your partner when they express something to you. Turning towards involves acknowledging what they said and focusing in on what they are expressing. Turning towards allows partners to be more attentive to what each other may be needing in any given moment. It also allows partners to feel confident that they are on the same team and that they truly understand one another.
Sometimes we avoid turning to our partner because we are unsure of what to say if they are in distress or because we may disagree with them. It is okay to not have the answers to your partners problems. Just being present and being willing to understand the problem communicates to your partner that you are there, even if you are unsure how to help. It is also okay to disagree with your partner. When there’s a disagreement, turning towards your partner instead of away communicates that you understand their point of view even if you do not share the same view.
Something as simple as turning toward your partner can make a big difference. Turning away hurts chances for emotional connection because it communicates disinterest and does not allow your parent to feel accepted, heard, or understood. Be intentional about turning towards your partner and see the impacts on your emotional connection!