Written by Janessa M. Borges, LCSW, Naples Oceanside Wellness, LLC
One of my absolute favorite resources for couples is “The 5 Love Languages” by Gary Chapman. This is my go-to first resource for couples struggling with communication in their relationship. So many of my couples say how they wished they would have read this book at the beginning of their relationship. It is truly a game changer.
Of course, once my couples read the book I navigate them through the exact process in which the book’s foundation can support their relationship.
Here is a cliff note’s version of the foundation of the book.
1- Acts of Service: doing something for your spouse that you know they would like. Cooking a meal, washing dishes, vacuuming floors, are all acts of service.
2- Gifts: a gift says, “He was thinking about me. Look what he got for me.”
3- Physical Touch: holding hands, hugging, kissing, sexual intercourse, are all expressions of love.
4- Quality Time: giving your spouse your undivided attention.
5- Words of Affirmation- using words to “build up” the other person.
In a relationship, discovering each other’s love language and speaking it regularly is a key to healthy communication and creates a sturdy foundation.
To take the free online assessment visit https://www.5lovelanguages.com/quizzes/couples-quiz/
