Dating 3 Steps To Master At-Home Couples Therapy 8:08 AM 3 Steps To Master At-Home Couples Therapy Couples from all walks of life can benefit from therapy. Relationship counseling gets a bad rep. Most people believe it's the last option before breaking up or divorcing. But even happy and healthy couples can learn from these therapy exercises. Unfortunately, couples therapy is costly. The average 1-hour session ranges from $150-500 after health insurance. If it’s even accepted. There are some effective, low-cost substitutes available. The best part? You can practice them in the comfort of your own home.Here are three steps to master at-home couples therapy to help you nourish your relationship.1. Harness the power of rituals.As a couple, you probably already have a ritual or two. It could be serving your partner their coffee in the morning. Or watching an episode of your favorite series at night. These small gestures play a huge part in strengthening your relationship. Next time you pour them a cup of coffee, compliment them. Or, when you sit down for dinner, ask them about their day.Give them a quick back massage when they're at their desk working.Chat while you're eating. Ask them about their day. Make the little deeds count. 2. Invest in quality time.Get off your phone an hour before bed and reconnect with your partner.Go to your favorite restaurant and order your favorite meal.Dance around the living room like no one's watching.Share stories. Play board games.Enjoy a laugh.The possibilities are endless! 3. Download Relish.Asking for help is not a sign of defeat. Sometimes we cannot solve our problems alone, and that’s okay! Though counseling can be expensive, there are affordable mobile versions available now.Relish is a personalized dating coach. It provides 24/7 evidence-based assistance to help your relationship succeed.We’re lucky to live in this age where we can access excellent relationship-aid resources. Improving your connection with your partner is now as easy as downloading an app.At-Home Couples Therapy Working from home can be stressful, especially during this time. Make small adjustments and follow these simple steps to master at-home couples therapy. They can make a huge difference in your romantic life.
Love and Relationship 5 Reasons Why It's Good To Marry Your Best Friend 6:29 AM Should you marry your best friend?I thought not everyone could marry their best friend. That's impossible. And unnecessary...Until I got married.Now, I couldn't emphasize enough the importance of marrying your best friend.I'm one of those annoying people who will continue to remind the singles out there:You should marry your best friend!Before you protest...What does marrying your best friend mean?To marry your best friend doesn't mean you start forcing yourself to fall in love with your best friend. Or pressure your best mate to marry you.To be friends first before you become lovers is ideal. A successful relationship or marriage is built on a solid friendship.If you and your best friend are already falling for each other...congratulations!If it's far from reality, don't fret.My husband and I didn't start our relationship as friends. We went from meeting to getting to know each other and then dating. It was fast. We both are not getting any younger, you know?But I can say my husband has become my best friend.Is it a good idea to marry your best friend? I'll give you five reasons why it is.1. Instant and constant support.Your best friend will cheer you on and support you. Even when no one else does. Even when you're not entirely confident in yourself.No matter how strong you are, it's good to have a sturdy shoulder to lean on sometimes.You can always count on your partner's emotional support. And that means a lot, especially when you are second-guessing yourself.Life is not easy. But knowing you have a partner you can count on lightens the load.2. Round-the-clock conversation.Remember when you were in high school? You would sleep over at your best friend's house and talk all night. It feels like time flies when you're together. And you never run out of topics.Marriage is like sleeping over with your best friend every night.When you can't sleep because worry keeps you up, having someone you can talk to is good. It eases the anxiety somehow.When you're both wrinkled and grey, and your hip and joints ache of old age, what you'll have left is conversation.Find someone you're comfortable sharing even your deepest, darkest fears with.It's beautiful that you're with someone you can talk to about anything at any time without worrying about being judged.Download the FREE Printable Fast Talk Questions3. Share sacred silence.Spending time in silence together is equally important as having a meaningful conversation.When you're weary and need a day of doing nothing, having a best friend who can sit with you in comfortable silence is reassuring.Knowing when to be quiet and enjoy that precious moment is vital. Especially when your partner is an introvert.Silence is a soothing and gratifying remedy for the toxicity of the world. Having someone to share that with is bliss.4. Having your worst critic.Your best friend will tell you what you NEED to know, not what you want to hear. Because your growth and success are as significant to them as they are to you.There may be misunderstandings and fights along the way. It happens to the bestest of friends. Let it strengthen your relationship and not shatter it.TIP: Be careful with honesty. Don't use the truth as an excuse to be cruel.5. To love and be loved unconditionally.Your best friend can give you unconditional love.I've heard this from one of the talks at The Catholic Marriage Summit: Humans have a deep desire to be known by another soul. And to be loved despite the knowing is a beautiful gift. There is something liberating and satisfying in being bound to someone who loves you despite and not because of who you are. Indeed, it is gratifying to know that you are loved and adored even when you feel unworthy.Why It's Good To Marry Your Best FriendI'm thankful and blessed to marry someone who puts my needs before his. Who considers me in everything, even with something as trivial as deciding what to eat. Who listens patiently and loves me for who I am, flaws, pimples, moods, etc. 😁So, marry someone you like to be with, talk to, and someone who brings out the best in you. Marry your best friend or work towards becoming best friends with your spouse.Forever sounds like a long time. You might as well spend it with someone you love and like. Question for YouWhat is your take on marrying your best friend?
For Moms 4 Important Things To Remember About The Donor Egg Process 10:00 PM 4 Important Things To Remember About The Donor Egg Process Trying to get pregnant naturally or through IVF with no success?Many couples are exploring other infertility options, like the donor egg process.Talking to professionals who care about your fertility issues should be your first step in exploring infertility options.What is the donor egg or egg donation process? Egg donation is a procedure wherein a fertile woman donates an egg, or oocyte, to another woman to help her conceive.Why donor eggs?The donor egg or egg donation process eradicates any issue a woman may have with her eggs – age-related problems, early menopause, genetically-transmitted diseases, or lack of success with traditional IVF (linked to the quality and/or quantity of her eggs).What can you expect with the egg donation process?No need to worry because the donor process is safe and painless as it’s done with anesthesia or painkillers.The donor takes medication to stimulate her ovaries and stop her menstrual cycle.The recipient will then start taking estrogen to develop her uterine lining. The embryo(s) will be transferred to the recipient five days after fertilization.Learn more about the medical egg donation process here.Here are four essential things to remember when choosing the donor egg process.1. Take your time in finding the egg donorTake your time choosing your egg donor. Instead, take your time to find the right one. Carefully consider accepting egg donations from relatives and close friends. Think about the consequences.It may seem reassuring to use the eggs of someone you know, but many prefer donors from an egg bank. Egg donation is no joke and would impact your relationship with the donor. From awkward dynamics within the family to debates over what role the donor should play in your child’s life, children can get complicated and may lead to issues. Using an egg bank donor removes these possible complications. You’ll be able to see your donor’s childhood or adult photographs, learn about her characteristics, and see her education, career, and life achievements. Things to ask yourself when choosing an egg donor: Would you choose someone who closely resembles you and your spouse? Would you prefer someone with the qualities you admire and hope your child will possess? 2. Fresh or Frozen Donor Egg? Which is better, fresh or frozen donor egg? The fresh egg donation process is a lengthier procedure. This is because you need time to synchronize cycles with your donor. Frozen donor eggs are readily available. Two weeks after transferring the fertilized embryo(s) to your uterus, you’ll need to go to the clinic for a pregnancy test and ultrasound. What’s next? Your pregnancy! 3. Prepare yourself. After going through the donor egg process...Be ready for your new role, mama!Eat food that is best for you and your developing baby.Ask your doctor what exercise is best for your condition to keep your body strong and healthy.After giving birth, learn how to be present for your child.Motherhood is the most challenging job in the world, but you’re superb.You got this! 4. Create a happy environment. Prepare your home and hearts for your new bundle of joy.The donor egg process may take a while, from planning, processing, looking for a suitable donor, and deciding, but it’s all worth it.A new angel will be coming into your lives.Don’t overlook the vital preparation part.From baby-proofing your home to finding the best baby essentials to putting your baby to sleep, it’s best to be ready.Create a happy and healthy environment for your new baby.To receive the news that you’re unable to conceive is heartbreaking.Thankfully, science is here.The donor egg process can help. But first, remember these four things and discuss them with your partner. Then, when you’re ready, talk to a fertility expert.
Marriage How To Change Name After Marriage In The Philippines 9:58 PM Updated as of January 2025After the stress and bliss of wedding preps and the wedding day, the new missus often faces a practical question: how to change her name after marriage? In the Philippines (and many other countries), changing one's maiden name is not required. If you plan to, I want to share my experience because I know it could feel confusing and overwhelming without guidance. It's really not. Yes, it could be frustrating since we're talking about government offices here (duh). But hang in there. With this Change Name guide and tips, you'll accomplish this task with ease.Want to skip reading the blog and get your copy of the requirements and steps in one place? Download the FREE checklist and guide below (Passport name change included). How to Change Name after Marriage in the Philippines First: Obtain a Marriage Certificate from PSAEnsure you have a copy of your marriage certificate from the PSA (Philippine Statistics Authority), formerly NSO (National Statistics Office).Schedule your online appointment as they no longer accept walk-ins as of this writing. 💡 Pro tip: Get at least 5-6 copies of your marriage certificate to avoid argument with the spouse. 😅 Because some agencies will need to keep the original. I'm currently based in Bacolod. Though the requirements listed here may be the same nationwide, the processes (like which window, building, etc.) may differ. For Philhealth, we went to their main office (map below). They're also in Robinson's Mandalagan. For PRC, SSS and PAG-IBIG, we went to Robinson's Bacolod 3/F. If you have the time, go to their main offices. The lines there may be shorter.DOWNLOAD the complete list of requirements and straightforward steps for changing your maiden to married name in the Philippines - including passport change with DFA (This one's rant-free, promise. Lol!) PHILHEALTHRequirements:PSA-certified marriage certificate: Bring the original and photocopy (In my case, she didn't bother checking the original and gave it back to me but kept the photocopy).Valid government ID: A photocopy of a valid government ID (I brought mine with my maiden name, and they accepted it).PhilHealth Member Registration Form (PMRF): You can download the printed and filled-out PMRF from their website. Their site is often down, so just check the link to see if it works. You can also ask in the office directly if you don't want to download. 1x1 ID picture with white background: This one was not listed on the website, but you need it for your new ID. Steps:Fill out the necessary information that applies. For Purpose, tick off ✔ For Updating. Wait for your number to be called and submit all requirements for checking.Wait for your updated record and ID.That's it!Personal Experience:The PhilHealth office is my favorite so far. We arrived a little past 7 a.m. I asked the guard for a number, and I was #27. They let us in around 7:40 a.m. (their office hours are 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.) and started transactions right away.My number was called around 8:15 a.m., and in less than a minute, I was done! However, I had to quickly grab a 1x1 ID photo nearby after submitting the papers and go back to the same window. 😒 After handing over my picture, she printed my name and pasted my picture. It took less than a minute, maybe 20 seconds.I didn't know I could get an updated ID right then and there, but I was glad I did. 💡 To protect your ID from damage, you need to laminate it yourself. There's a lamination service just outside their office. Philhealth office location: Click the photo to view it on Google Maps PRCRequirements:Filled out Petition Form from their websitePhotocopy AND original Marriage CertificatePhotocopy of current PRC IDStatutory fee of Php 225Metered documentary stamp2 pcs passport size picture with white background and name tag (your married name)PRC postal envelope - this is not listed on the website but required in Bacolod which I think is because they will mail your requirements to Manila office.Steps with comments1. Proceed to Window 1 with requirements 1-3 above. It kind of pissed me off that I made an effort to look for a lawyer to notarize the petition form because that's what it says on their website, only to be told I didn't have to. 😠 I told Miss Not-So-Pleasant at Window 1 that it's what the website says. I even showed the list I downloaded, but Miss Window #1 just said, "No, we don't require that. We don't ask you to do that." Cute. 🙄 2. Proceed to the back of the room, where you will have your passport-size picture taken (they have blazers if you're not wearing a top with a collar). They only needed one photo, but you'll get six copies. This is also where you will pay for the stamps. I paid Php 110 for 2 pieces documentary stamps (which the woman wrote on a piece of paper, not an official receipt), Php 120 for the pictures, and Php 25 for the postal envelope. The pictures and envelopes were not written on the paper, nor was I given an official receipt for these requirements, but I didn't ask why anymore because welcome to the Philippines. 😅 3. Back to Window 1. She pasted the stamps and my picture on the form, wrote some things, and gave me back my documents. 4. Pay the statutory fee in Window 5 (Cashier). No sarcasm; she was nice and helpful. You need a number for this, though. You can get one from the Cashier after you're done with the requirements, but my husband got me a number while I was processing. The cashier already called my number, but this good guy in front of the line allowed me to go before him because I said I had to wait for my photo (I did for about 5 minutes because it was quite busy). Bless his heart. They'll give you an official receipt for the Statutory Fee. 5. Proceed to Window 6. Brace yourselves. Major rant incoming. Again, it was a little annoying because Mr. Window 6 (Brian) pointed at the notary on my paper to his colleague and sniggered. He did this not only once but three times because his colleague (Miss Nice and Helpful Cashier) didn't find it amusing that he was acting like a total jerk, pointing at my "mistake" in front of me for having my paper notarized. So I told him, "Your website says notarized Petition Form." 😈 To which he replied that it was only for something else. It's time to update your website and specify which transactions need a notarized petition form and which don't, PRC. We're professionals; we're not mind readers. And train your employees (or at least Sir Brian at Window 6) to act professionally next time. The P on your agency's name means Professional, after all. 🙄 I returned to the woman who had sold me the postal envelope for a refund because I had said it was not required. But then she said they should've taken it and called the trooper, Sir Brian. He forgot he needed to fill it with my papers. He's such a delight! 🙄 Giphy Note: I was instructed to check online (within 2-8 months) if my record has been amended. After that, I have the option to apply for an online transaction like a license renewal or just wait for when my present ID expires. They will then give me an ID with "Duplicate" on it (if I apply for renewal right away), reflecting the same expiration date as I have on my current ID. Transactions may be quick or slow depending on the number of people applying on the day. I think we were there for only about 40 minutes.PRC Location:I went to PRC Robinson's Bacolod. The mall wasn't open yet, but if you tell the guard your purpose, they'll let you in. SSSRequirements:Two (2) copies of Member Data Change RequestMarriage Certificate (must show the original but only leave photocopy)Old SSS IDPhotocopy of valid ID with married name Steps:Line up to have your forms checked and get a number. So, if you ask me, it's better to download the form online so you can fall in line right away. Wait (for eternity 😅) for your number to be called and submit your requirements.Note: I was also told to put my husband under Dependent because, apparently, that's automatic when you're married. I didn't know that. They will mail your new SSS ID within 30-60 days.Personal ExperienceThis one's a pain. Although I'm thankful that Robinson's has Lingkod Pinoy Centers, where you can find government offices in one place, the lines could be daunting. I spent more than two hours waiting. 🚩 Update: I never got my SSS ID. It was lost in the mail, the post office told me. They advised me to just get a new one. That was more than 2 hours wasted, including me going back. 🤬 As of January 2025, you can’t change your status or name online on the SSS website anymore. You’ll have to visit their site to do it instead. PAGIBIGRequirements: Marriage Certificate (they didn't look for original, just photocopy)MCIF (Member's Change of Information Form)Valid government ID (it's on the list, but they didn't ask for mine) Steps:Get a number.Wait for another eternity. 😭😅 Wait for your number to be called and submit all your documents. They will update your information immediately, but you'll have to go back for the form with your updated married name. They'll tell you when. For me, it's three days after. Pro Tip: Get numbers for both SSS and PAGIBIG simultaneously. They're just next to each other. PAGIBIG is faster than SSS, but both transactions took almost four (4) hours to finish. Giphy Changing your name after marriage is no fun, but it is necessary. It's part of making things legal. Personal Advice Remember to bring with you: black pen some snacks or candy to avoid getting hAngry water a fan (it was hot even with the mall's AC)extra cash in case the rates have changed a whole lot of patience and understanding for uncultured people like Brian at the PRC Bacolod office 🙊 Hope this helps! If you have further questions, please leave a comment below. What's your experience in changing your name after marriage? Let me know!👇 Get your FREE downloadable list of requirements and easy-to-follow steps (Passport name change included) 👇
Lux Thinking Aloud I Have Found The One Whom My Soul Loves - My Wedding Day 6:38 PM I have found the one whom my soul loves. - Song of Solomon 3:4 It seems only yesterday when I was writing about why I was single.People I know and even I myself was a little surprised as to how fate made an unexpected turn.Today, I'm sharing the day God fulfilled His promise to me...The day I have found the one whom my soul loves...my wedding day!I Have Found the One Whom My Soul Loves The WaitingEven when I had unsuccessful past relationships, my faith in love was never tarnished. I knew it was going to be a long journey so I decided to enjoy it. I kept working on myself and I waited---sometimes in faith, sometimes in fear. There were days when I was blissfully reveling in my unattached and uncomplicated single life...And there were nights when my heart would long for a partner. I already had plans of living alone yet I felt a prodding in a different direction. Prayers and Discernment Interestingly, I met my husband when I was resolved that the single life was for me. It was when I fully embraced the thought of staying single forever when God was like, "Wait! I've got a better plan." Every night I would ask God if this man I met is the one because otherwise, I don't want to waste my time. It's funny that I used to ask for specific things I want for my future spouse, and when I met someone who checked all the boxes, I was in doubt. There are a lot of prayers from me and my friends involved.It's going to be a major life change so I need all the spiritual guidance I could get.My husband on the other hand had been praying for years for God to finally give him his wife before he turns a certain age.Single friends, remember these two important things while you wait:Write down your non-negotiables for a partner. Be as specific as you can be. Pray. A lot. Our Wedding Day It may seem rushed, but there were a lot of things involved from that fateful day we met to the day we exchanged I do's. It wasn't a perfect wedding, but it was beautiful. The planning and preparations brought me to a whole new level of stress---which unfortunately showed on my skin even on our wedding day. My husband's first words to me when we met at the altar were "You look beautiful, honey." 😊 So I guess it didn't matter how my complexion was. Not all things would go according to your plans. But I've realized that at the end of the day, it's not about that perfect Instagrammable wedding picture. It's not about how much the flowers cost or how gorgeous your wedding dress is (I'm blessed that mine was 😝 and it's unplanned how I found it). Your wedding is a celebration of your union with the person God gave you as a partner. It's about you starting your life with your best friend. It's the day you share your promise to the world. And that's all that really matters. Everything else is supplemental. Here's our wedding video: Dear readers, thank you for journeying with me from when I was single until now. I will still be blogging about being single because I love that stage of my life and I learned a lot from it. My hope is to continue to encourage everyone regardless of their relationship status. And my prayer is that if you haven't yet, may you also find the one whom your soul would love.
Dating The 5 Love Languages: How To Save Your Relationship 8:00 AM Relationship conflicts usually happen not because you lack love but because you don’t know how to show it in a way the other person understands. Sometimes your significant other doesn’t receive it as you intended because we speak different love languages. What are the five love languages, and how can they help nourish and save your relationships? What is a love language? Our love language is our way of expressing, receiving, and understanding love. Gary Chapman, a marriage and family life expert, is the author of The Five Love Languages: How to Express Heartfelt Commitment to Your Mate. He discovered the five primary languages of love. Although we do relate to these love languages, there is at least one which we prefer the most or which speaks to us the loudest. Learning which love language your partner, friend, or family speaks and letting them know which one is yours can help strengthen your relationship and save you from misunderstandings and issues in the long run. The 5 Love Languages Words of affirmationQuality timeReceiving giftsActs of servicePhysical touch 1. Words of affirmation If your partner’s love language is words of affirmation, spoken words should be your main focus in expressing feelings. You enjoy verbal affection, encouragement, endearment, and frequent compliments. You can also write love notes and send sweet texts. Make it a point to compliment your partner with uplifting words and highlight their strengths every chance. Simple words that show appreciation can make another person’s day. Sometimes, even a trivial comment can impact the other person for ample time. Examples of words of affirmation love language: “You are important to me.” “I love you.”“You look great in that dress.”“That hairstyle looks good on you.”“I’m lucky to have you.”“I love it when you ___.”“I’m grateful for you.”“You bring me joy by simply being in my life.”“Thank you for___.”“I appreciate your ___.”“That is impressive!”“You are inspiring.”“I’m proud of you and to have you.”“You are amazing!”“Love your outfit.” Words of affirmation should not be empty adulation but highlight the best in your partner. It can nourish your relationship by reminding them how able, loved, and admirable they are and encouraging them to always do better, positively affecting your connection. Giphy 2. Quality time Undivided attention. Taking time from your busy schedule, prioritizing, and not just giving what extra time you can spare means the world to those with quality time as their love language. How to show your love through quality time? Be focused and be present. Listen actively. Turn off any distractions.Be a good conversationalist.Try new activities together.Share their hobbies or interests and vice versa.Take them on a surprise date.Create beautiful memories together.Binge-watch your favorite shows or movies.Spending quality time with your loved one can nourish your relationship. It helps you learn more about each other, understand them better, and share more moments. Rebloggy 3. Receiving gifts The love language of receiving gifts is not only about the item itself. It’s the thought of having someone put time and effort into giving you a present. It’s the gesture and what it represents that matters the most. The gift could be as simple as a chocolate bar or a personalized gift like a greeting card you made yourself. It could be anything that exudes thoughtfulness. Receiving gifts love language ideas: Create a scrapbook of your memories or the things you love about them.Order them lunch at work.Send random gifts on random days. Make a holiday for the person and throw them a celebration or send a special gift.Leave them love notes around the house or at their desk.Send an e-card on any day.Surprise them with a bouquet of flowers one morning.Send a special gift on big days, like during a presentation, end of a project, or when they close a deal.Buy them their favorite book, shirt, perfume, or dessert for no apparent reason.Create a playlist of their favorite songs or songs you dedicate to them.Buy them a subscription for something they’ve always wanted. You can give a diamond necklace or pick a flower from the garden. Either way, the person with gifts as a love language will surely treasure it and receive the love you’re giving.Up your DIY craft game by making presents yourself. Here are a few examples from the 5-Minute Crafts FAMILY:4. Acts of service Parents smile from ear to ear when the house has been cleaned without them telling their kids to do their chores.People whose love language is acts of service feel special when you go out of your way to show support or take the initiative to help ease their burden.How to fill up someone’s love tank through acts of service?Acts of service love language ideas:Make breakfast or their favorite cup of joe.Listen when they want to rant.Accompany them on a checkup.Offer to drive them to work or pick them up after.Help carry heavy bags.Run an errand for them when they’re swamped.Wash the dishes and take the trash out without being asked.A helping hand is a simple gesture highly appreciated by those who score high on acts of service as their language of love. Remember to not keep count of the services you’ve done. If it’s inconvenient for you to do something for them at some point, communicate to let them know. Giphy 5. Physical touchBeing physically present and touchy can fill up a love tank amazingly.Physical touch is the most obvious among the 5 languages of love. Touch can nourish and save your relationship because it communicates love effectively. It brings instant joy and gives the other person a sense of security. And physical touch is more than just sex.Ways to express your love through physical touch:HugKissPat on the backCaressHand on the shoulderGiving a massageLeaning your head on the shoulderStroking their hairHolding hands Giphy What is your love language? Some people’s language of love combines two or more of the 5 languages. Actually, we need all five to feel loved and show love. It’s just that we have one primary language which speaks more. For relationships to last longer, each individual should first know their language and find out the other person’s love language. It may not be easy at first, but love is sticking together when times are tough and working things out hand in hand. Learn it now and save yourself from conflicts in the future. This post contains affiliate links, so we'd get a commission if you purchase through the links at no additional cost to you.Hero image Take the 5 Love Language Quiz So, what’s your love language? You can take the quiz here to find out. Then, let me know in the comments!
![How To Master At-Home Couples Therapy [3 Steps]](https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVi9BaSjWvjAiu4pLoLMu2BUVQ8XokU-VwhMMxKI0PCub1Yt4JBpKP5_Dw64SYXniJdgdR4WBoER5BKDNWlZLABLuoNhSMNNk6Wq8HicxIC00W35BYv13q73x3OdGtcuUY-qc2Nuyga4U/s16000/How+To+Master+At-Home+Couples+Therapy+3+Steps.jpg "How To Master At-Home Couples Therapy [3 Steps]")
