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Key Things Couples Should Discuss Before Their Honeymoon

Once the dating phase is over and you’re ready to take the big step into marriage, your mind is bound to be filled with questions. From financial responsibilities to emotional compatibility, family expectations, and future planning, there’s so much to consider before saying, “I do.” Even if you’ve touched upon some of these topics, there are still important conversations to have—especially before you embark on your honeymoon.

The honeymoon isn’t just a time for travel and romance; it’s an opportunity to understand your partner in a new light truly. This phase sets the foundation for your married life, allowing you to observe each other’s habits, expectations, and emotional needs in a more intimate setting.

What are the key things couples need to discuss before their honeymoon?

Shivani Misri Sadhoo, Delhi’s top marriage counsellor, and couples therapist shares seven essential things that every couple should discuss before their honeymoon.

Money Matters

Setting a budget before heading on your honeymoon is a must. It helps you enjoy your trip without financial stress. Consider travel, accommodation, food, and activities while planning. Don’t forget extra costs like shopping for loved ones.

Unexpected expenses can come up, so keep a little extra aside. A well-planned budget ensures a smooth and memorable honeymoon without overspending or regrets later. Smart planning makes the trip more enjoyable.

Choose Your Destination Wisely

Choosing the right honeymoon destination is crucial for a memorable start to your journey together. You may dream of adventure—skydiving, scuba diving, or trekking—while she longs for a peaceful beach retreat, watching waves dance like fairies in a folktale.

If expectations don’t align, disappointment may follow. Sit down, discuss, and find a destination that excites both of you. A well-planned honeymoon ensures happiness, harmony, and cherished moments that last a lifetime.

Talk About The Menstrual Cycle

Talking about the menstrual cycle before your honeymoon is essential for a smooth and comfortable trip. It helps both partners set expectations and plan activities accordingly. Some women experience cramps, mood swings, or fatigue, which can affect their enjoyment. Knowing the cycle dates allows better scheduling and avoids unexpected stress.

If the honeymoon coincides with her period, discussing options like medication, rest, or adjusting plans ensures a stress-free experience. Open communication strengthens understanding, care, and intimacy in the relationship.

Birth Control

Another important topic to discuss before your honeymoon is birth control. Planning ahead can help prevent unwanted pregnancies, reducing physical, emotional, and financial stress. Sharing responsibility for birth control strengthens your relationship and ensures peace of mind. It’s important to talk about your options and decide what works best for both of you. Some methods take time to become effective, so early planning is key. After all, you want to focus on enjoying your honeymoon without worries.

Set Boundaries

When you set boundaries in a relationship, it is not about restricting each other but about creating a safe and respectful space. Both partners should decide together what is acceptable and what is not. Open discussions about privacy, intimacy, and social interactions help avoid misunderstandings.

This is especially important before a honeymoon, where clear expectations about personal space, finances, and activities prevent conflicts. Talking about comfort levels ensures a stress-free and enjoyable time together, strengthening the bond.

Likes and Dislikes

Do you want your honeymoon to be a dream come true rather than a stressful trip filled with disagreements? Understanding each other’s preferences, likes, and dislikes is the key. Before setting off, couples should openly discuss what they want to do, see, and eat.

This helps avoid misunderstandings and ensures both partners feel included. When both know what the other enjoys, they can plan activities that suit their interests, making the trip more fun, memorable, and fulfilling for both.

Shared Values

If you really want your honeymoon to be the start of a strong and lasting marriage, deep conversations about values are a must. You and your partner won’t agree on everything, and that’s okay. What matters is understanding each other’s perspectives and respecting differences. Shared values don’t mean identical opinions but rather a common understanding of what truly matters. This helps build trust, avoid unnecessary conflicts, and create a bond that can withstand life’s ups and downs.

A honeymoon is more than just a getaway—it’s the first step in your married journey. Open conversations about money, travel plans, health, boundaries, and values create a strong foundation for a happy marriage. When couples understand and respect each other’s needs, they build trust, deepen love, and create memories that last a lifetime.

Heal after an Indian divorce

Life After Divorce – How to Heal and Start Rebuilding

Divorce can be one of the most challenging experiences in life, bringing emotional turmoil, uncertainty, and a need for reinvention. Whether the separation was amicable or contentious, the transition can feel overwhelming. However, life after divorce is not just about coping—it is about healing and rebuilding a fulfilling future.

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How do you heal and start rebuilding after a divorce?

Here’s how you can embark on this journey as shared by couples therapist and marriage counselor Shivani Misri Sadhoo.

Allow Yourself to Grieve

Divorce represents the end of a significant chapter in your life. It is natural to experience a mix of emotions, including sadness, anger, guilt, and even relief. Suppressing these feelings can prolong the healing process. Allow yourself to grieve and process your emotions. Seeking professional counseling or joining support groups can help you navigate this emotional phase more effectively.

Rediscover Yourself

Marriage often involves compromise, sometimes at the expense of personal aspirations and interests. Post-divorce life is an opportunity to reconnect with yourself. Engage in activities that bring you joy—whether it’s travelling, painting, fitness, or learning a new skill. Embracing your individuality will help you regain confidence and create a fresh identity.

Establish a Support System

Surround yourself with positive influences—family, friends, and support groups who uplift and encourage you. Avoid isolating yourself, as loneliness can intensify feelings of despair. Talking about your experiences and emotions with trusted people can provide comfort and perspective.

Take Charge of Your Finances

Divorce often comes with financial adjustments. If you are dependent on your spouse financially, take proactive steps to gain financial independence. Create a budget, manage expenses wisely, and consider consulting a financial advisor to plan for future stability. Understanding your finances will empower you to make informed decisions about your future.

Prioritize Self-Care

Your well-being should be your top priority. Focus on both physical and mental health. Regular exercise, a balanced diet, and adequate sleep can significantly improve your mood and energy levels. Meditation, yoga, or therapy can help manage stress and foster emotional resilience.

Set New Goals

A new chapter in life means new opportunities. Set realistic and meaningful goals—whether personal, professional, or relational. It could be advancing your career, starting a business, or forming new social connections. Having goals provides direction and a sense of purpose.

Embrace New Relationships Cautiously

Jumping into a new relationship immediately after divorce may not be the best decision. Take time to heal and understand what you truly want in a partner. When you are emotionally ready, approach dating with an open yet cautious mindset. Prioritize personal growth before committing to someone new.

Seek Professional Help if Needed

If you find yourself struggling to move on, seeking therapy or professional counseling can be beneficial. A trained therapist can provide guidance, coping strategies, and a safe space to work through unresolved emotions.

Life after divorce can be daunting, but it is also an opportunity for growth and renewal. Healing takes time, but with self-care, support, and a positive outlook, you can rebuild a life that is fulfilling and meaningful. Embrace this new beginning with hope and confidence—your best days are yet to come.

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How can you Break Free from the Chains of Past Mistakes?

Life is a journey, and every journey is bound to encounter detours, bumps, and wrong turns. Our past mistakes often feel like heavy chains, weighing us down, and holding us back from moving forward. But what if you could break free from these chains and start anew?

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What are some of the ways to break free from the chains of past mistakes?

Let Shivani Misri Sadhoo, India’s leading relationship expert and couples counsellor be your guide in this transformative process as she explains the process.

Acknowledge and Accept

The first step to breaking free is acknowledging your mistakes. Denial only prolongs the pain and leaves you stuck in a loop of regret. Take a moment to reflect on your past actions. Ask yourself: What went wrong? What could I have done differently? Self-awareness is key, but it must be paired with self-acceptance. Remember, mistakes are part of being human—they shape who we are and help us grow.

Forgive Yourself

Forgiveness is a powerful tool for liberation. Often, we hold ourselves hostage to guilt, replaying our errors like a broken record. To move forward, you need to forgive yourself. Self-compassion is not about excusing your actions but about understanding that you are a work in progress. Write a letter to yourself, acknowledging the mistake, expressing regret, and affirming your commitment to learn and improve.

Learn the Lesson

Every mistake carries a lesson waiting to be learned. Instead of dwelling on the error, focus on what it has taught you. Perhaps it revealed a blind spot in your behaviour, highlighted a toxic pattern or showed you the value of patience. Mistakes are life’s greatest teachers. Extract the wisdom they offer, and use it as fuel to propel yourself forward.

Let Go of the Past

Letting go is easier said than done, but it is essential for healing. Holding onto the past is like dragging an anchor—your future cannot thrive while you’re rooted in regret. Engage in practices like mindfulness or meditation to focus on the present. Visualize yourself cutting the chains of your past mistakes and walking into a brighter future.

Take Action Toward Growth

Breaking free from past mistakes isn’t just about reflection; it’s about taking proactive steps to grow. If your mistake hurt someone, apologize and make amends. If it was a professional error, seek opportunities to upskill. Forward motion is key. Start small, set achievable goals, and celebrate your progress.

Surround Yourself with Support

No one breaks free alone. Seek guidance from a trusted friend, family member, or mentor who can guide you toward self-discovery. Sharing your journey with others can lighten the load and provide new perspectives.

The Power of Renewal

Mistakes do not define you; how you respond to them does. Life’s greatest transformations often emerge from its darkest moments. By acknowledging, forgiving, and learning, you can break free from the chains of your past and step into a future filled with possibility.

Your past is just a chapter—not the whole story. Embrace the journey of growth and allow yourself the freedom to begin again.

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Arranged Marriage: Relationship Expert Advice for Effective Talking to Fiancé

Arranged marriages have been a cornerstone of Indian culture for generations. Unlike love marriages, where partners choose each other independently, arranged marriages involve the active role of families in finding a suitable match. While this process ensures compatibility in terms of background, values, and lifestyle, the task of building a personal connection lies entirely with the couple.

For many, the initial phase of an arranged marriage can be daunting, especially when navigating conversations with someone who is practically a stranger but soon to become a life partner. Effective communication is key to bridging this gap and fostering a bond. Here’s a guide to help you communicate effectively with your fiancé, with a special focus on the Indian context as explained by India’s top couples therapist and marriage counselor Shivani Misri Sadhoo.

What Is an Arranged Marriage?

An arranged marriage is a union where families take the lead in identifying a potential partner for their child. In India, this practice is deeply rooted in tradition and cultural values. Families often consider factors such as caste, religion, social status, education, and family reputation before proposing a match.

However, modern arranged marriages have evolved significantly. Today, individuals play a more active role in the decision-making process, with families encouraging them to interact and assess compatibility before committing. This blend of traditional values and personal choice creates a unique dynamic in arranged marriages, emphasizing the importance of communication.

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Tips for Talking to Your Fiancé in the Indian Context

1. Understand the Role of Family Dynamics

In Indian arranged marriages, families are often closely involved in the couple’s lives. When speaking with your fiancé, discuss their family structure, traditions, and expectations. Questions like:

“What role do your parents and siblings play in important decisions?”

“How do you envision balancing family responsibilities after marriage?”
can help you gauge their perspective and align your expectations.

2. Discuss Cultural Values and Beliefs

Cultural values play a significant role in Indian marriages. Whether it’s about religious practices, festivals, or food preferences, understanding these aspects can strengthen your bond. Ask questions like:

“What traditions do you celebrate with your family?”

“Are there any cultural practices you feel strongly about?”

3. Address Lifestyle Compatibility

In the Indian context, lifestyle compatibility often extends beyond individual preferences to family expectations. Topics like living arrangements (joint family or nuclear family) and work-life balance are crucial. For example:

“Do you prefer living in a joint family or having a separate setup?”

“How do you manage your work and personal commitments?”

4. Be Mindful of Sensitive Topics

While sensitive topics such as finances, children, or career aspirations are universal in marriage discussions, their implications in India are often influenced by cultural norms. When broaching these subjects, be tactful and respectful. For instance:

Instead of directly asking, “How much do you earn?” Try, “What are your thoughts on financial planning as a couple?”

5. Explore Personal Preferences and Interests

To build rapport, delve into their interests and passions. This not only makes conversations more engaging but also reveals their personality. Ask about:

Hobbies, such as reading, traveling, or sports.

Favorite cuisines or movies.

Showing genuine interest in their likes and dislikes can help build an emotional connection.

6. Clarify Future Goals

In Indian arranged marriages, long-term goals are often intertwined with family priorities. Discuss topics like:

Career aspirations and their alignment with family expectations.

Plans for relocating, especially if one partner may need to move cities or countries.

7. Be Honest About Your Expectations

Transparency is critical. Share your expectations regarding independence, personal space, and your role in the family. For instance:

8. Respect Regional and Cultural Differences

India’s diversity means that even within arranged marriages, couples might come from different states, communities, or linguistic backgrounds. Learning about your fiancé’s regional customs can demonstrate respect and effort toward understanding their roots.

Building a Bridge Between Tradition and Modernity

In the Indian context, arranged marriages are not just about two individuals but a union of families. However, the success of this bond depends on how well the couple communicates and understands each other.

By addressing crucial topics like family values, lifestyle choices, and future goals, while also taking the time to know each other personally, you can create a relationship that blends tradition with modern understanding.

Remember, patience, empathy, and openness are the keys to turning an arranged match into a meaningful partnership.

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What Is Tik Tok’s Trending Orange Peel Theory to Know if Your Partner Loves You?

Many a time, people in love wonder how much their partner truly loves them. Can love be measured, just like we measure physical quantities like weight, height, or time?

The answer is no. Love is an emotion—a deeply personal and abstract feeling that cannot be quantified by tangible metrics. It is not about how many candlelight dinners you share, the number of gifts exchanged, or even how often the words “I love you” are said.

Love is far more profound and complex than that. Small, meaningful gestures often reveal the depth of a relationship.

Helping your partner with household chores, taking on tasks they dislike just to make their day easier, or showing empathy in moments of stress can signify deep affection. Interestingly, a simple act like peeling an orange can become a litmus test of love. 

Yes, you read that right! The Orange Peel Theory, a concept currently trending on TikTok, apparently tells you how much your partner loves you.

Let’s find out more about this theory from India’s top marriage counselor and relationship expert, Shivani Misri Sadhoo.

What is it about the Orange Peel Theory?

The “orange peel theory,” a concept that has captivated social media, beautifully illustrates the essence of a healthy relationship through the lens of small, everyday acts of care.

Imagine this: you’re seated at the kitchen table, staring at an orange, wishing someone would save you the trouble of peeling it. You casually ask your partner, and their response—whether an effortless “Sure, love” or “Do it yourself” — speaks volumes.

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It’s not about the orange or the task itself; it’s about their willingness to make your life easier, even in trivial moments. This simple act reflects a deeper emotional truth: love isn’t measured by grand gestures but by the quiet, thoughtful ways someone shows they care.

Whether it’s brewing your favorite cup of tea after a long day or offering to handle a chore you dislike, these small actions signal empathy, understanding, and a readiness to meet your needs. At its core, the orange peel theory reminds us that the strength of a relationship lies in the details, where love thrives in the mundane.

How does it help people?

The “orange peel theory” emphasizes small, thoughtful gestures over grand declarations of affection. It highlights attunement—being present and noticing subtle ways to brighten your partner’s day, like peeling an orange for them.

These simple acts of service can strengthen intimacy and self-esteem without words. The theory also helps de-escalate conflicts through care and attention when words fail. Gaining popularity for its relatability, ease of application, and immediate feedback, it offers a practical approach to fostering deeper connections in today’s fast-paced world.

Love Languages

The Orange Peel Theory helps explore how you and your partner give and receive love. Love languages include:

·       Gift-giving

·       Quality time

·       Acts of service

·       Physical touch

·       Words of affirmation

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Shared experiences & emotional security. For example sharing an orange can highlight a partner’s preference for quality time.

Communication Styles

The theory encourages understanding communication methods and improving them and asks meaningful questions to uncover how you both communicate and your goals.

Areas to Work On

It helps identify strengths and areas for improvement in the relationship. and celebrate the good and discuss areas that need change.

Limitations of this Theory

– Oversimplifies relationship dynamics by focusing on one act, ignoring deeper aspects like communication and conflict resolution. 

– Assumes everyone expresses love the same way, overlooking other love languages like quality time or words of affirmation. 

– Small actions may be misinterpreted, leading to misunderstandings about a partner’s feelings. 

– Encourages unhealthy “testing” of love, creating insecurity instead of trust. 

– Sets unrealistic expectations, ignoring the need for compromise and respecting individual boundaries.

Love isn’t one-size-fits-all but thrives in simple gestures. The Orange Peel Theory shows that love often lies in small acts, like peeling an orange without hesitation. Such thoughtful moments highlight care and connection.

If your partner doesn’t do this, it doesn’t mean they love you less—love is expressed in many ways. Embracing these differences fosters stronger, more meaningful relationships.

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Strengthening Digital Intimacy in Relationships

Gone are the days when couples used to write letters to each other, pouring their hearts out on paper, with every word carrying the weight of their emotions. Those heartfelt messages took days, sometimes weeks, to arrive, and the anticipation of receiving them made the connection even more precious. Today, in our fast-paced digital age, relationships have shifted dramatically. Quick texts, emojis, and video calls have become the new language of love. While this instant communication has brought unparalleled convenience, it has also introduced a new challenge—how do we maintain deep emotional connections in a world dominated by fleeting interactions?

This is where the concept of digital intimacy comes in. Digital intimacy is not just about staying connected through devices; it’s about using technology to nurture, deepen, and sustain the emotional bonds that hold relationships together. If done right, it can bring couples closer than ever. But how do you strengthen digital intimacy in a way that feels real and fulfilling? 

Eminent marriage counselor Shivani Misri Sadhoo in Delhi NCR shares a few tips and tricks for strengthening Digital Intimacy in Relationships.

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What is Digital Intimacy?

In simple words, digital intimacy is the emotional closeness and connection people build through digital platforms. It involves sharing thoughts, feelings, and expressions of love via screens, creating meaningful bonds and communication despite physical distance. This helps individuals to nurture relationships, share personal experiences, and maintain a sense of togetherness in the digital space.

Pros and Cons of Digital Intimacy

Some of the pros of digital intimacy are:

  • It enables communication across cities and countries with ease. 
  • It offers flexibility and convenience, keeping people connected despite busy schedules. 
  • It allows creative expression through surprise gifts, playlists, and video calls. 

Cons of digital intimacy:

Some of the cons of digital intimacy are:

  • It can feel shallow, lacking facial expressions and tone of voice. 
  • It raises privacy concerns, making sharing personal details feel vulnerable.

Tips to Strengthen Digital Intimacy

A few tips may help to bolster digital intimacy.

Meaningful Communication

Just because communication happens virtually doesn’t mean emotions are any less real. There are plenty of ways to express your feelings and connect with your loved ones, even from a distance.

Words Matter: Thoughtful words can carry deep emotion. A carefully crafted message or a simple “I love you” can leave a lasting impact, showing your affection in a meaningful way.

Voice and Tone: Whether through voice messages or calls, the tone and inflection of your voice can convey warmth, care, and love, even when you are miles apart.

Video Calls: The ability to see each other’s facial expressions and body language during video calls helps recreate the in-person connection, making the interaction feel more authentic and personal.

Emojis and Stickers: While they may seem small, emojis and digital stickers can be powerful tools to express joy, love, or empathy in a fun and light hearted way.

Consistency and Thoughtfulness: Even the simplest gestures—like checking in or sharing a fond memory—can go a long way in maintaining a strong emotional bond.

Know Each Other Better

In today’s world, technology bridges the gap between couples, making physical distance feel less significant. Virtual communication, like late-night video calls and heartfelt texts, builds deep emotional connections. The absence of daily distractions allows couples to explore each other’s thoughts and feelings more profoundly. This intentional time together strengthens the bond, making the relationship more meaningful despite the miles apart.

Gifts and Surprises

Sending virtual gifts—like an e-card, a playlist of songs, or a heartfelt message—adds a special touch that shows just how much you care.

Digital Alertness

At the end of the day, your safety matters most. Being digitally alert is key to strengthening digital intimacy. In a world where transparency builds trust, it’s important to set boundaries for social media and online interactions. Respect each other’s space, avoid expecting constant replies, and address discomfort calmly to foster trust and healthy connections.

In a nutshell, digital intimacy is about leveraging technology to nurture emotional closeness in relationships. Meaningful communication, deep understanding, thoughtful surprises, and digital alertness are key to strengthening this bond. By blending creativity with care, couples can transcend physical distance, fostering genuine connections in today’s digital age.

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Why Intimacy is Different for Men and Women in a Relationship?

Intimacy is a cornerstone of any relationship, but men and women experience and express it differently. These differences are rooted in emotional, physical, and psychological factors that shape their desires and expectations.

Below are five key points each on what men and women want in intimacy, shedding light on their unique perspectives as explained by one of the leading marriage counselors in India Shivani Misri Sadhoo in this article.

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What Men Want in Intimacy?

Some of the things men want are:

Initiating  Physical Intimacy

Men often prefer to take the lead in initiating physical intimacy. This stems from a combination of biological factors like higher testosterone levels and a desire to feel confident and wanted in the relationship.

Physical Connection as a Primary Need

Men frequently associate intimacy with physical touch and connection.  Physical activities like hugging, and other forms of physical affection are vital for them to feel loved and emotionally close to their partner.

Respect and Appreciation

Feeling respected and appreciated by their partner significantly enhances a man’s sense of intimacy. Compliments, acknowledgment of their efforts, and expressions of admiration make them feel valued.

Simple and Direct Communication

Men often prefer clear and straightforward communication when it comes to emotional or intimate needs. Subtle cues or hints can be overlooked, so direct conversations help them feel more connected and assured.

Bonding Through Activities

Engaging in shared activities, such as sports, hobbies, or even working on a project together, is a way men build intimacy. These moments of teamwork or companionship make them feel closer to their partner.

What Women Want in Intimacy?

A few things women desire are:

Emotional Connection Before Physical Intimacy

For many women, emotional intimacy is a prerequisite for physical closeness. Feeling understood, supported, and secure in the relationship creates the foundation for a deeper connection.

Affection Beyond the Bedroom

Women appreciate consistent acts of affection that aren’t necessarily tied to physical intimacy. Holding hands, cuddling, and thoughtful gestures help them feel loved and valued in everyday moments.

Quality Time and Undivided Attention

Women often place high importance on spending meaningful time together. Uninterrupted conversations, shared experiences, and moments of togetherness foster emotional closeness.

Being Heard and Validated

Women want their thoughts and feelings to be genuinely heard and validated. A partner who listens with empathy and acknowledges their emotions helps build trust and intimacy.

Consistency and Reassurance

Consistency in behavior and emotional availability is crucial for women. Knowing they can rely on their partner’s love and support gives them the confidence to open up fully.

Bridging the Gap

Men’s tendency to initiate physical intimacy and women’s need for emotional connection before physical closeness can sometimes create misunderstandings. However, these differences are complementary when couples communicate openly.

For instance, a woman can appreciate her partner’s desire to initiate intimacy, while a man can focus on creating an emotionally secure environment for his partner.

Understanding what men and women want in intimacy reveals how their needs, though distinct, often align to form a balanced and fulfilling relationship.

By respecting each other’s perspectives—whether it’s through emotional connection, physical affection, or acts of love—couples can strengthen their bond and create lasting intimacy. Embracing these differences not only enhances understanding but also deepens the connection that lies at the heart of a strong relationship.

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How Can Letting Your Ego Bring Your True Happiness in Life?

In a world where success is often tied to happiness, it’s easy to believe that accumulating more—money, possessions, recognition—will lead to fulfillment. However, even when surrounded by comforts, many still feel an unsettling void. What’s holding us back from the happiness we seek? The answer lies within: our ego.

The ego convinces us we’re incomplete and constantly in need of more. Yet its desires are insatiable, keeping true happiness out of reach. To find peace, we must let go of the ego’s grip and embrace a simpler, more authentic way of living, says India’s top marriage and relationship counselor Shivani Misri Sadhoo.

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What is Ego?

The ego represents our sense of self-worth and identity, shaped by memories, beliefs, and experiences. While a healthy ego fosters confidence, an inflated one breeds arrogance and inflexibility. It becomes the mask we wear, shaping how we present ourselves to the world. Balancing the ego is key to inner peace.

How Ego Blocks Happiness?

An unchecked ego can harm relationships, mental health, and overall well-being. Here’s how it sabotages us:

  • Fosters Superiority: An inflated ego creates a false sense of being better than others, leading to arrogance and strained relationships.
  • Creates Rigidity: It resists change, making us inflexible and closed to new perspectives.
  • Blames Others: The ego deflects responsibility, hindering self-reflection and personal growth.
  • Breeds Resentment: Holding onto ego-driven grudges adds negativity to our lives.
  • Triggers Fear and Anxiety: It fosters an unhealthy need to protect an idealized self-image.
  • Impairs Decision-Making: Ego-driven choices can lead to missed opportunities and damaged relationships.
  • Seeks Power and Control: The ego’s desire for dominance often creates conflict and dissatisfaction.

Steps to Release the Ego and Find Happiness

1. Practice Self-Reflection

Pay attention to moments when you feel defensive, angry, or eager to prove yourself right. Pause and ask: Is this reaction necessary, or is it my ego speaking? Reflecting on your emotions helps you respond thoughtfully and consider how your actions affect others.

2. Embrace Forgiveness

Forgiveness is an antidote to ego. While the ego clings to past hurts and demands validation, forgiveness frees you from resentment and allows you to heal. It’s not about excusing others but about releasing the burden of pain and opening yourself to peace and happiness.

3. Cultivate Mindfulness

Mindfulness helps you stay present and self-aware. Journaling, meditation, or mindful breathing can anchor you in the moment, reducing the ego’s influence. Supportive relationships and honest feedback also encourage self-reflection and inspire growth, helping you prioritize genuine happiness over external validation.

4. Let Go of Control

The ego thrives on the illusion of control, tying happiness to fleeting achievements and possessions. To break free, accept life’s unpredictability and embrace change. Take small risks, explore new opportunities, and find joy in simple moments. As psychologist Shivani Misri Sadhoo suggests, letting go doesn’t mean giving up—it means responding with grace and trusting life’s flow.

True happiness comes from within. By releasing the ego’s hold through self-reflection, forgiveness, mindfulness, and acceptance, we can let go of unnecessary fears and desires. This shift allows us to experience deeper connections, inner peace, and a more joyful, meaningful life. Letting go of the ego is not a loss but a pathway to uncovering the beauty and balance of life.

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What Is Sledging? Understanding A Growing Toxic Dating Trend Among Gen Z

Dating can swing from exhilarating to downright frustrating. Among the many toxic trends in the modern dating world—ghosting, breadcrumbing, and zombieing—“sledging” stands out for its premeditated and manipulative nature. Rooted in a lack of genuine intent, sledging involves someone deliberately entering a relationship with plans to end it after a specific time, often right after the holiday season.

Let’s dive into this harmful trend, with insights from India’s top couples therapist and marriage counsellor Shivani Misri Sadhoo, and explore how you can protect yourself from falling victim to it.

What Is Sledging in Dating?

Sledging refers to being strung along in a relationship solely to serve the other person’s temporary needs. The term captures the image of dragging someone emotionally, like pulling a sledge through the winter, with no intention of continuing the relationship after the holidays. Sledgers often decide months in advance to break up, wasting their partner’s time and leaving them blindsided when the relationship abruptly ends. Unlike the cozy bonds of cuffing season, sledging is purely for convenience and leaves the victim hurt and unfulfilled.

Sledging Toxic Dating Trend Among Gen Z

Why Do People Engage in Sledging?

Seeking Winter Companionship – Winter can feel isolating, and the festive season amplifies loneliness for many. To avoid being alone, some seek temporary relationships to fill the emotional void, valuing short-term comfort over long-term commitment.

Social Pressures During Festive Events – Holidays come with numerous social gatherings, and being single at these events can feel awkward. Many enter relationships to have a “plus one” for parties, family dinners, or holiday photos, prioritizing appearances over authenticity.

Fear of Commitment – The perks of companionship without emotional investment appeal to those wary of long-term commitments due to past heartaches or fear of vulnerability.

Ego Boost and Validation – For some, the thrill of attracting a partner and basking in their affection serves as an ego boost. The relationship itself is less important than the validation they derive from being desired.

Societal Expectations – Pressure from society—and social media—to appear in a relationship during the holidays drives people to engage in flings for show, rather than pursuing meaningful connections.

Avoiding Emotional Vulnerability
By keeping relationships superficial, sledgers shield themselves from the risks of deep emotional connections, enjoying the benefits of a relationship while keeping their feelings at arm’s length.

Red Flags of Sledging

  • Mixed Signals – Early attention and communication wane over time, leaving interactions feeling shallow and routine.
  • Reluctance to Discuss the Future – Your partner avoids making long-term plans, signalling a lack of serious intent.
  • Focus on Instant Gratification – Sledgers prioritize immediate pleasure, showing little interest in building a lasting connection.
  • Lack of Emotional Depth – Superficial conversations and avoidance of vulnerability suggest emotional detachment.
  • Over-the-Top Affection Early On – An initial flood of affection (love bombing) may mask manipulative intentions.

How to Protect Yourself from Sledging in a Relationship?

  • Seek Authentic Connections – Focus on shared interests and mutual goals to foster genuine relationships.
  • Communicate Openly – Be honest about your relationship expectations and encourage the same from your partner.
  • Avoid Treating or Being Treated as a Placeholder – Refuse to settle for a relationship built on convenience or seasonal loneliness.
  • Resist Societal Pressures – Being single is a valid choice; your worth isn’t tied to your relationship status.
  • Set Boundaries – Discuss needs and goals early. If there’s a misalignment, agree on a respectful exit strategy.
  • Embrace Being Single – Singlehood can provide opportunities for personal growth and self-confidence, laying the foundation for future healthy relationships. It’s vital to focus on relationships rooted in authenticity rather than fleeting convenience. Sledging might seem like a harmless trend, but it creates emotional harm and robs people of opportunities for real connection. By prioritizing open communication, self-respect, and emotional honesty, you can protect yourself and build meaningful, lasting bonds.
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5 Important Things a Long Distance Relationship Teaches You

Falling in love often feels effortless, filled with shared moments and joy. But when distance becomes part of the equation, nurturing that love demands patience, trust, and unwavering commitment. Long-distance relationships are undoubtedly challenging, trading spontaneous coffee dates and evening strolls for late-night calls and virtual hugs. Yet, they offer invaluable lessons about love, commitment, and ourselves.

What are the important things a long-distance relationship teaches you?

Let’s explore five key lessons a long-distance relationship teaches, as shared by India’s renowned marriage and relationship counselor, Shivani Misri Sadhoo.

Time Is Valuable

A long-distance relationship reveals the fleeting nature of time and teaches us to cherish moments with our loved ones. While physical separation limits shared activities, it emphasizes emotional investment, open sharing, and attentive listening. In today’s digital age, where connections often feel superficial, long-distance relationships foster meaningful bonds through intentional conversations and deep understanding. Moments of connection—whether a heartfelt conversation or a virtual meal—become precious reminders to value the time spent with those we love.

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The Art of Patience

Living apart requires an exceptional level of patience. Unlike proximity-based relationships, where instant gratification is common, long-distance relationships teach us to wait. There are times when your partner may not answer a call—not out of neglect but due to circumstances like work or travel. These moments test your ability to trust and manage misunderstandings. The prolonged wait for visits or responses often feels unbearable, but it fosters endurance, hope, and resilience. This learned patience not only strengthens your bond but also cultivates a broader life skill: appreciating delayed gratification and embracing the joy of reunions.

The Importance of Communication

Communication forms the backbone of any relationship, but its importance is magnified in long-distance setups. Being apart compels couples to practice clarity, honesty, and regular interaction. Miscommunication or withholding feelings can lead to unnecessary complications, making transparency essential. Effective communication strengthens emotional bonds, resolves conflicts, and builds trust, minimizing negative feelings. Sharing experiences, beliefs, and expectations bridges the physical gap, ensuring that emotional intimacy flourishes despite the miles.

Trust Becomes Essential

Trust is vital in any relationship, but in a long-distance dynamic, it takes center stage. Physical separation can breed uncertainty, yet this distance pushes couples to rely on trust more than ever. Gestures of love, honest communication, and patience become the foundation of emotional security. Trusting in your partner’s actions, promises, and intentions helps navigate the challenges of being apart. Setting boundaries and clear expectations further strengthens this trust, creating a secure and respectful space. Long-distance relationships demonstrate that trust transcends proximity—it’s about emotional assurance and belief in the relationship’s strength.

You Learn to Appreciate Each Other

Distance has a way of amplifying appreciation for your partner. When physically close, it’s easy to overlook gestures or become frustrated by quirks. However, separation sharpens your focus on the qualities and actions that make your partner special. The absence of their touch, voice, or presence makes their value unmistakably clear. Things once taken for granted, like a simple conversation or a laugh, gain profound significance. This newfound perspective fosters deeper gratitude and highlights the importance of the little things in a relationship.

Long-distance relationships are undeniably challenging, but they bring invaluable rewards. They teach us to treasure time, master patience, communicate effectively, build trust, and deeply appreciate our partners. Despite the obstacles, these relationships strengthen emotional connections and encourage us to value every shared moment, proving that love can thrive even across great distances.