Marriage Counsellor and Psychologist Shivani Misri Sadhoo

We often think attractiveness is about looks, style, or physical features—but true attractiveness goes much deeper than that. It’s not just about how someone looks, but about how they make others feel. Some people seem to have a magnetic charm that draws others toward them effortlessly. You can sense their energy in the way they talk, listen, and carry themselves. The secret lies not in appearance, but in habits—the small, consistent actions that reflect inner confidence, kindness, and authenticity.

Which 5 Habits Make People Instantly Attractive to Others?

Here are five amazing habits that make people naturally attractive and deeply admired by others as explained by Shivani Misri Sadhoo who is one of the most experienced couples and relationship counselors in India.

1. They Radiate Positivity

Attractive people are not those who have perfect lives—but those who maintain a positive attitude, even when things don’t go their way. Their optimism is contagious. They focus on solutions, not problems, and find silver linings even in challenges.

When you’re around someone who exudes positivity, you feel lighter, more hopeful, and more at peace. That’s because positivity shifts energy—it turns ordinary moments into uplifting ones. Whether it’s greeting others with a smile, showing gratitude, or encouraging people during tough times, their attitude becomes a source of warmth and comfort.

A positive mindset doesn’t mean pretending everything is fine—it means believing in possibilities. People who embody this habit inspire others to do the same, which makes them irresistibly magnetic.

2. They Truly Listen and Make Others Feel Heard

One of the most underrated yet powerful habits is active listening. We live in a world where most people listen to reply, not to understand. But attractive individuals do the opposite—they listen with genuine attention. They make eye contact, nod, ask thoughtful questions, and remember details.

When you talk to them, you feel seen, valued, and respected. They don’t interrupt or dominate the conversation; they let you express yourself freely. That’s why people naturally open up to them—they create a safe emotional space.

This habit signals emotional intelligence and empathy—qualities that build trust and deepen connections. Being a good listener isn’t just polite; it’s profoundly attractive because it shows you care about others more than your own ego.

3. They Carry Themselves with Confidence, Not Arrogance

Confidence is one of the most universally attractive traits—but it’s important to understand that true confidence is quiet. It doesn’t demand attention; it attracts it naturally.

People with genuine confidence are comfortable in their own skin. They don’t try to prove their worth to others, nor do they need validation to feel good about themselves. They know their strengths, accept their flaws, and stay grounded.

Unlike arrogance, which pushes people away, real confidence invites respect. It’s reflected in posture, eye contact, tone, and how they treat others. When someone walks into a room with calm assurance and humility, they instantly stand out—not because they’re loud, but because they’re secure.

4. They Show Kindness Without Expecting Anything in Return

There’s something deeply beautiful about people who are kind—not because they want recognition, but because it’s simply who they are. Kindness has a way of leaving a lasting impression. It could be as simple as holding the door open, offering help without being asked, or speaking with compassion instead of judgment.

Truly attractive people see others as human beings, not as means to an end. They treat everyone with respect—whether it’s a colleague, waiter, or stranger. Their kindness makes them approachable and trustworthy.

Research even shows that kindness activates a “warm glow” in both the giver and receiver, fostering emotional connection. People remember how you make them feel—and kindness ensures they remember you fondly.

5. They Are Authentic and Comfortable Being Themselves

In a world obsessed with filters, perfection, and social approval, authenticity stands out like a breath of fresh air. Attractive people don’t pretend to be someone else—they embrace their uniqueness. They speak honestly, express their opinions with respect, and aren’t afraid to show vulnerability.

Authenticity creates connection because it signals realness. When someone is unapologetically themselves, it gives others permission to be real too. That kind of honesty builds trust faster than any charm or pretense ever could.

Being authentic also means having the courage to say “no” when needed, and standing by your values even when it’s inconvenient. That quiet integrity makes such people truly admirable.

True attractiveness isn’t about appearance—it’s about energy, attitude, and empathy. The most magnetic people are those who uplift others, listen deeply, live confidently, show kindness, and remain genuine.

When you cultivate these five habits, you don’t just become more attractive—you become more alive. People will be drawn to your authenticity, your warmth, and your positive presence. And that kind of beauty never fades.

In any healthy relationship—whether romantic, familial, or friendship—boundaries play a crucial role in maintaining mutual respect and emotional safety. Without boundaries, even the strongest relationships can become strained, leading to misunderstandings, resentment, or burnout. Boundaries are not walls that keep people out—they are guidelines that define how we want to be treated and how we treat others, says Shivani Misri Sadhoo, who is India’s top couples and marriage counselor in this blog.

What Do Boundaries in a Relationship Refer To?

Boundaries in a relationship refer to the limits and expectations that partners set to protect their emotional, physical, and mental well-being. They define what is acceptable and what isn’t in terms of behavior, communication, and personal space. Boundaries ensure that both individuals feel respected, valued, and safe, preventing one person from overpowering or neglecting the other.

For example, setting boundaries might mean communicating honestly about personal needs, maintaining privacy, saying “no” without guilt, or ensuring equal effort in emotional or physical intimacy. They create balance—allowing closeness without losing individuality.

How to Set Healthy Boundaries in a Relationship?

Know Yourself First
Understand your values, comfort zones, and emotional triggers. You can’t set boundaries if you don’t know what you need to feel secure and respected.

Communicate Clearly and Calmly
Express your boundaries openly and respectfully. Instead of blaming or accusing, use “I” statements like “I feel uncomfortable when…” or “I need some alone time to recharge.”

Be Consistent
Once you set a boundary, maintain it. Inconsistency can confuse your partner and weaken the respect for your limits.

Respect Your Partner’s Boundaries Too
Boundaries are mutual. Just as you expect your limits to be respected, you should honor your partner’s as well. Listen and adjust when needed.

Don’t Feel Guilty About Setting Limits
Healthy boundaries don’t make you selfish—they make you emotionally mature. They show you value yourself and your relationship enough to keep it balanced.

Boundaries are the foundation of trust and respect in every relationship. They help both partners grow individually while nurturing their bond together. Without them, love can quickly turn into control, dependency, or emotional exhaustion. Setting boundaries is not about distance—it’s about creating the right space where love, respect, and understanding can thrive.

Have you ever replayed a conversation in your head and cringed at what you said? Or remembered an awkward moment and felt your cheeks burn? These experiences are common, but the feelings behind them vary. At times, we simply feel embarrassed. Other times, we feel guilty about something we did. But when the discomfort goes deeper and touches our very sense of worth, that is shame.

While guilt says “I did something bad,” shame whispers “I am bad.” And unlike embarrassment or guilt, shame is more damaging if left unchecked. Eminent psychologist and marriage counsellor in India, Shivani Misri Sadhoo explains that learning how to deal with shame is vital for mental health, self-confidence, and healthy relationships.

What is Shame?

Shame is the uncomfortable belief that you are flawed, unworthy, or “not good enough.” It often arises after mistakes, criticism, or rejection. For example, forgetting a partner’s birthday may cause temporary guilt, but if you start believing that this makes you careless or unlovable, the heavy, sinking emotion you feel is shame.

Psychologists distinguish between two types of shame—healthy and toxic. Healthy shame is temporary and acts as a signal that you have fallen short of your values, motivating you to correct your actions and do better. Toxic shame, on the other hand, runs much deeper. Instead of being tied to a single mistake, it becomes part of your identity, making you feel permanently flawed and unworthy. If left unchecked, this type of shame can undermine your confidence, weaken relationships, and even affect physical and emotional well-being.

Why Shame Hurts More Than Guilt or Embarrassment?

Embarrassment usually comes from awkwardness in social situations, such as forgetting someone’s name or tripping in public. Guilt is connected to specific actions, like missing a deadline or breaking a promise. Shame, however, is different because it attacks identity itself, convincing you that you are fundamentally wrong as a person.

When mistakes become linked to self-worth, the emotional weight of shame intensifies. People often respond by avoiding others, striving for perfection, or isolating themselves. Over time, shame can fuel deeper struggles such as anxiety, depression, and a lack of trust in relationships, making it far more destructive than guilt or embarrassment.

How to Deal with Shame in Life?

You should try the following ways to deal with shame:

1. Recognize and Acknowledge Shame

The first step in overcoming shame is awareness. Pay attention to situations that trigger defensiveness, anger, or withdrawal—these often mask shame. Notice how it feels in your body: heaviness, a desire to hide, or discomfort in social situations. Journaling these moments can help reveal patterns. Awareness shifts shame from something unconscious to something you can actively work on.

2. Understand the Root Causes

Shame often has roots in childhood experiences, social pressures, or repeated criticism. Growing up in an environment where love or acceptance was conditional can create lasting feelings of inadequacy. Similarly, struggles with identity, finances, or academic performance may contribute. Recognizing that much of this shame is inherited—not chosen—can ease the burden. You are not defined by past judgments or circumstances.

3. Practice Self-Compassion

Self-compassion is the antidote to shame. Instead of harsh self-criticism, treat yourself with the same kindness you would offer a close friend. When shame arises, pause and ask: What would I say to someone I love if they felt this way? This shift helps you move from judgment to understanding. Even if it feels unnatural at first, practicing small acts of self-kindness—like gentle self-talk or taking breaks when overwhelmed—builds resilience over time.

4. Challenge Negative Beliefs

Shame often thrives on distorted thinking such as “I don’t belong” or “I will fail.” Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) techniques encourage questioning these thoughts:

• What evidence supports this belief?
• What evidence challenges it?
• How would I view this situation if it happened to someone else?

Replacing absolute, negative beliefs with balanced perspectives reduces shame’s power.

5. Build Supportive Connections

Shame pushes people to hide, but connection is the cure. Talking to trusted friends, partners, or mentors can normalize your struggles. Often, you will discover others have faced similar feelings. Vulnerability in safe relationships breaks shame’s cycle of secrecy and self-isolation.

6. Seek Professional Guidance

Sometimes shame is deeply rooted and hard to manage alone. In such cases, working with a therapist is invaluable. A trained professional provides a safe, non-judgmental space to explore emotions, uncover root causes, and develop healthier coping strategies. Approaches like CBT or Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) help reframe negative thought patterns and rebuild self-worth.

Living Beyond Shame

Shame is universal—everyone experiences it at some point. But it does not have to define you. By recognizing its presence, understanding where it comes from, treating yourself with compassion, and seeking help when necessary, you can loosen shame’s grip.

As psychologist Shivani Misri Sadhoo emphasizes, dealing with shame is not about erasing mistakes but about refusing to equate them with your identity. With awareness, kindness, and courage, you can step out from shame’s shadow and live with greater confidence, peace, and self-acceptance.

Marriage is a journey full of growth, discovery, and sometimes challenges that test the bond between two people. While every relationship is unique, most marriages tend to go through recognisable stages. Understanding these phases can help couples navigate difficulties, strengthen their connection, and set realistic expectations, says Shivani Misri Sadhoo, a leading relationship expert and one of the top marriage counsellors in Delhi and India.

Questions You Might Ask

1. Why do couples often face the most difficulties in the early years of marriage?

Many challenges emerge as couples move beyond the initial excitement of marriage into the realities of everyday life. Differences in habits, communication styles, and expectations can surface, often leading to conflict if not addressed consciously.

2. Can a marriage survive Stage 3, the Power Struggle?

Yes. Stage 3 can feel intense, but with open communication, mutual understanding, and a willingness to grow, couples can emerge stronger. It’s less about avoiding conflict and more about learning to navigate it together.

6 Stages of Marriage, as explained by couples therapist Shivani Sadhoo

Stage 1: The Honeymoon Phase

This is the period of excitement and idealisation. Everything feels new and thrilling, and couples often overlook imperfections as they focus on love and connection.

Stage 2: Reality Sets In

As the initial excitement fades, differences between partners become more apparent. Habits, routines, and even quirks that were previously endearing can now feel challenging.

Stage 3: The Power Struggle

Often called the toughest stage, this is when conflicts and disagreements become more frequent. Couples question whether the marriage will last and confront unresolved personal or relational issues. The emotional intensity can feel overwhelming, but it’s also a stage that provides the opportunity to build resilience and a deeper understanding if navigated consciously.

Stage 4: Rebuilding and Acceptance

After working through conflicts, couples start to regain trust and understanding. Acceptance of each other’s differences and the ability to compromise strengthen the foundation of the relationship.

Stage 5: Deep Connection

By this stage, couples often feel a profound emotional and spiritual bond. They communicate more effectively, support each other’s growth, and share a sense of partnership that goes beyond surface-level romance.

Stage 6: Legacy and Purpose

Here, couples focus on building something bigger than themselves, whether it’s family, community, or shared goals. There’s a sense of fulfilment in contributing together and leaving a lasting impact.

Identifying Your Stage

Recognising which phase your marriage is in can help you manage expectations, enhance communication, and approach challenges more intentionally. If you find yourself in Stage 3, remember that feeling tested doesn’t mean failure—it’s an opportunity for growth.

Strategies to navigate Stage 3 include:

• Seeking couples therapy or professional guidance
• Reconnecting emotionally and fostering intimacy
• Prioritising personal growth alongside relational growth
• Learning constructive conflict resolution techniques

Marriage isn’t a final destination but an ongoing journey. Each stage has its purpose, and even the toughest periods, like Stage 3, can strengthen the bond between partners when approached with patience and commitment.

Marriage is not just a union of two people; it’s a journey filled with love, challenges, growth, and countless shared experiences. But sometimes, when the going gets tough, giving up can seem like the easiest option.

Yet, before making any final decisions, it’s worth pausing and reflecting on why your marriage deserves a second chance. Even when things seem broken, healing is possible. Here we explore the five strong reasons not to give up on your marriage.

What are the reasons for not giving up on your marriage?

Shivani Misri Sadhoo, a leading relationship expert, certified DBT & CBT therapist and one of the top marriage counsellors in Delhi and India, discusses the five factors for not giving up on your marriage.

The Foundation You’ve Built Together

Every relationship has a history. Over the years, you’ve created countless memories, faced obstacles, celebrated wins, and grown both individually and as a couple. These shared experiences form the emotional foundation of your marriage.

Walking away from your partner means walking away from everything you’ve built together your home, your shared goals, and even your struggles that made you stronger. Instead of throwing it all away, consider rebuilding from where you are. Often, the cracks in a relationship can become places where light enters if both partners are willing to try.

Marriage Is a Journey, Not a Destination

No marriage is perfect. Conflict, misunderstandings, and emotional distance are part of the journey. Just because you’re going through a rough phase doesn’t mean it’s the end. Growth comes through adversity. Working through issues, rather than walking away, can lead to a deeper understanding of each other and a more mature, resilient relationship. When you overcome a storm together, your bond often becomes stronger than before.

Love Can Be Rekindled

Feelings fade when they are not nurtured, but that doesn’t mean they are gone forever. Love is not just a feeling; it’s also a choice and an action. Small efforts like spending quality time, expressing appreciation, or seeking counselling can reignite the emotional connection. You once fell in love for a reason. Exploring those memories and reigniting what first brought you together can open the door to renewed intimacy and affection.

Impact on Family and Children

If you have children, your relationship sets the tone for their emotional environment. Children thrive in a stable, loving household. While staying together only for the sake of the kids isn’t ideal, fighting for your marriage creates a powerful example of commitment, problem-solving, and resilience.

Moreover, separation often brings emotional and logistical upheavals that can deeply affect everyone involved. Saving your marriage may not only bring peace to your own life but also to the lives of those who depend on you.

You Haven’t Tried Everything Yet

Before giving up, ask yourself: Have you really tried everything? Marriage counselling, communication workshops, or even personal therapy can offer powerful tools for healing. Many couples reach a breaking point simply because they lack the right strategies to deal with conflict or emotional disconnection. Sometimes, just having a neutral third party to guide the conversation can unlock breakthroughs that seemed impossible before.

Marriage is not always easy—but neither is walking away. If there’s still love, even a little, it might be worth fighting for. Time, effort, empathy, and patience can breathe life back into what feels broken. Sometimes, holding on can be the bravest and most rewarding thing you’ll ever do.

Being single is not a flaw. It can be a conscious, empowered, and deeply fulfilling choice. While society often paints romantic relationships and marriage as the ultimate milestones of adult life, many people are choosing a different path. They don’t see marriage as the be-all and end-all. Instead, they prioritise personal growth, career goals, creative pursuits, spiritual exploration, and deepening connections with friends and family.

What makes one stay single?

If you are wondering why some people genuinely love staying single, here are four reasons shared by leading relationship and marriage therapist Shivani Misri Sadhoo.

1. They love their Independence

One of the biggest reasons people enjoy staying single is the freedom that comes with it. Relationships often involve compromises, shared responsibilities, and constant coordination—which can feel limiting for those who deeply value their independence. When you’re single, you can set your own schedule, chase personal goals, and make decisions without having to factor in someone else’s needs.

That kind of autonomy can be incredibly fulfilling, especially for those who thrive on self-reliance and personal growth. Choosing to stay single doesn’t mean someone is selfish—it simply means they’re prioritising their own well-being and sense of identity. And there’s nothing wrong with that.

2. Painful Past Experience

Another reason some people choose to stay single is because of painful past experiences. When someone has been deeply hurt in a previous relationship, it can leave emotional scars that take a long time to heal. The fear of being hurt again makes it hard to trust or open up.

Even if they want love, the memories of heartbreak hold them back. Staying single becomes a way to protect their heart, to avoid the pain they once knew too well.

3. Longing and Boundaries

Some people avoid relationships because their emotional needs feel too intense, even shameful. They fear being a burden, so they isolate themselves to protect others—and themselves. Others are aware of their neediness but try to manage it, often shaped by early experiences with emotionally demanding caregivers.

They might avoid intimacy to protect their boundaries or fear being overwhelmed by a partner’s needs. Both responses are valid and deeply human. Healing starts by understanding your story, accepting where you are, and gently making space for both connection and self-protection.

4. Avoid Commitment

Some people stay single because they fear commitment—not out of coldness, but from a deep, often quiet vulnerability. The idea of merging their life with someone else can feel suffocating or risky. Maybe they’ve seen relationships fall apart or felt trapped in the past.

Commitment demands trust, openness, and emotional risk, which can be daunting. For them, staying single offers a sense of control and emotional safety. It’s not that they don’t crave connection—they just struggle with the weight of promises that feel too heavy or permanent to carry.

In a nutshell, people stay single for all sorts of deeply human reasons—some love their freedom, others are healing from old wounds. Some guard their hearts with healthy boundaries, while others quietly fear the weight of commitment. Whatever the reason, choosing to stay single can be a brave, thoughtful, and beautifully intentional way to live.

Discover how betrayal pain can unveil hidden psychological trauma, explained by renowned Delhi marriage counselor Shivani Misri Sadhoo.

Betrayal isn’t just about broken trust — it’s a deep emotional wound that can cut to the core of a person’s sense of self, safety, and stability. Whether it stems from a partner’s infidelity, a friend’s deception, a parent’s neglect, or a coworker’s manipulation, betrayal can be a form of trauma.

Yet, many people don’t recognize it as such. They move forward carrying invisible scars, unaware that their anxiety, trust issues, emotional numbness, or even chronic self-doubt may be symptoms of something much deeper, betrayal trauma, says Shivani Misri Sadhoo who is a leading relatoinship expert in India and one of the best marriage counselors in Delhi.

How Betrayal Pain Causes Psychological Trauma?

Psychological trauma from betrayal occurs when someone we rely on for safety, emotional support, or love violates that trust. This rupture in the relationship can trigger a fight, flight, or freeze response in the brain.

The body reacts as if it’s in danger, flooding the system with stress hormones like cortisol and adrenaline. When the betrayal is ongoing or occurs within a close relationship, such as with a spouse, parent, or long-time friend, the trauma can be even more severe because it disrupts the very foundation of emotional security. The pain of betrayal can manifest in several ways:

• Loss of Identity: Many people define themselves in relation to others. When a trusted person betrays you, it can feel like a personal failure. Victims may question their own worth or judgment, leading to a fractured sense of self.

• Hypervigilance and Mistrust: The brain, once betrayed, often becomes wired to expect betrayal again. This can lead to hyper-awareness, mistrust in new relationships, and difficulty forming emotional bonds.

• Emotional Numbing: To avoid future pain, people may suppress emotions or detach from relationships entirely. This self-protection can create feelings of isolation and depression.

• PTSD-like Symptoms: Flashbacks, intrusive thoughts, nightmares, and a constant sense of unease can emerge, especially if the betrayal was traumatic or repeated.

Understanding and Healing from Betrayal Trauma

One of the biggest challenges in addressing betrayal trauma is that it often goes unrecognized. Because the hurt is caused by someone known and trusted, many victims feel ashamed or confused. They may minimize the betrayal or blame themselves, rather than acknowledging the severity of the emotional injury.

Healing begins with recognition. Identifying that you’ve experienced betrayal trauma is the first step toward recovery. Talking to a mental health professional, especially one who specializes in trauma, can help you process the emotions, understand the patterns, and rebuild self-trust.

Therapeutic methods such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and inner child healing can be particularly effective. Building supportive relationships, practicing self-compassion, and engaging in grounding activities like journaling or meditation also aid recovery.

Betrayal trauma is real, and its effects run deep. If you find yourself reacting strongly to situations that seem minor, struggling to trust others, or feeling disconnected from yourself, it might be time to look deeper. Understanding that your pain has a name and that it is valid is the beginning of healing. You are not alone, and with the right support, it is possible to move beyond betrayal and rediscover safety, connection, and peace within.

We do not live in a perfect world, and no relationship is flawless. It is quite natural for all relationships to go through ups and downs. Conflicts and disagreements are bound to happen, even in the most loving families.

According to psychologists, the fact that parents fight is not the real issue—what truly matters is how they resolve those fights, with maturity and a balanced point of view. When parents manage their disagreements with calm, maturity, and mutual respect, some arguments can actually be constructive and can teach kids valuable lessons about communication and compromise.

Children are vulnerable. They are innocent. For them, parents are the primary source of safety and stability. So, when they see their parents yelling or arguing, they feel insecure and scared. This kind of toxic environment can leave an indelible mark on their young minds—sometimes with long-term psychological consequences.

How can You Safeguard Your Children during Couple Arguments?

Shivani Misri Sadhoo, one of the top couples therapists in Delhi, shares a few tips and tricks on how to protect children when couples argue.

1. Don’t Raise Your Voice

Parenting is tough, no doubt, and an argument between a couple can’t always be avoided. However, how we handle these arguments matters most, especially in front of our children. When voices are raised, the impact on a child can be deeper than we imagine. They may not always show it, but they’re soaking in every word, every tone, and every reaction. A loud argument can leave them feeling unsafe or anxious, and over time, they may begin to mirror that behavior.

Kids don’t just hear us—they learn from us. If we shout when we’re upset, they may grow up thinking that’s how stress or disagreement is supposed to be handled. But if we can stay calm, even when things get heated, we’re teaching them strength, patience, and emotional stability. It’s not about being perfect parents—it’s about being conscious ones, especially when little ears and hearts are in the room.

2. Maintain Privacy

A good way to handle arguments between couples is to keep them behind closed doors. Children feel uncomfortable and emotionally unsafe when their parents fight in front of them, even unintentionally. They often have difficulty understanding the full context of disagreements, which can cause confusion, fear, or even a false sense of responsibility.

The privacy of the argument doesn’t make the argument harmless, but it shields the children from the emotional baggage of the argument. While kids can still sense tension in the air, watching it unfold directly is far more damaging. The separation of their children from conflict allows them to feel secure and emotionally stable while also allowing their parents to resolve issues without involving their children.

3. Keep Children Away From The Fights

Keeping kids out of a heated debate is one of the best things parents can do. Children should never be forced to mediate disputes between their parents or be pulled into adult disputes. Children who witness violent arguments, particularly if they feel compelled to choose a side, may become confused, emotionally conflicted, and even hold themselves accountable for the hostility at home.

No child should have to bear the burden of their parents’ problems or feel bad about something that is out of their control. They should be able to grow up without the emotional upheaval of adult arguments, in an environment where they feel safe, secure, and unconditionally loved by both parents.

4. Be Frank With Your Child

Make sure to have a heart-to-heart chat with your child, gently explaining that not all arguments are bad. Let them know that sometimes parents do fight, but that doesn’t mean something is wrong. In fact, some disagreements can lead to healthy conversations and help people understand each other better.

Reassure them that even when people argue, it doesn’t take away the love and care they have for one another. Tell them, “We still love you, and we still love each other.” It’s important to stay calm and help them see that just like they might have small fights with friends at school and then make up later, grown-ups do the same.

5. Seek Professional Guidance

Sometimes, it takes an outside perspective to truly understand what’s going wrong truly. If you’ve fought with your partner in front of your child, don’t be too hard on yourself—it happens. But if these arguments are becoming frequent or turning into shouting matches filled with insults, swearing, or slammed doors, it might be time to seek professional help.

No parent wants their child to carry the emotional weight of constant conflict at home. Counselling or therapy can offer a safe space to work through issues, using practical, proven methods to help couples communicate better and find healthier ways to handle disagreements.

Children deserve a safe, loving environment in which to grow. When parents stay calm, sort out issues in private, and keep little ones away from heated moments, they create a safer space for their children. Reassuring kids with love and honesty and seeking help when needed shows real strength. It’s okay to argue—just protect those tender hearts through it all.

Finding love in today’s digital world can feel like a thrilling adventure or a daunting challenge. With just a swipe or a click, you can meet potential partners from across the globe. But how do you cut through the noise of endless profiles to find someone who genuinely aligns with your goals? While dating apps have made the process convenient, they’ve also introduced complexities that weren’t present in the era of handwritten love letters or classic movie nights of the 1980s.

How do you navigate this modern maze of romance? Can creating the right dating profile really be the key to finding someone special—and perhaps, even leading to marriage?

To answer these questions, Shivani Misri Sadhoo, India’s top couples therapist and relationship counsellor shares her expert tips to craft a dating profile that reflects your true self and attracts the right kind of partner for a meaningful, lasting relationship.

1. Be Authentic when creating your dating profile

Perhaps the first and foremost thing to do when creating a dating profile is to be honest and authentic. Misrepresenting yourself or pretending to be flawless won’t help you find the right person. Be clear about what you want, whether it’s companionship or a lifelong partner, and embrace your imperfections with self-respect. Authenticity is magnetic and shows you value yourself and your journey. Being genuine helps attract someone who truly appreciates you for who you are.

2. Add Your Hobbies and Interests to Your Dating Profile

Always remember, that a successful dating profile should be fun, inviting, and full of personality. Use the 3 Cs— colour, context, and character—to tell your story and stand out. Highlight your hobbies, interests, and how you spend weekends. Focus on passions, like things you love doing, rather than problems.

Take advantage of the dating apps, to add details about work, family, and favourite activities. Keep it lighthearted and engaging to make online dating enjoyable for you and your matches.

3. Get To Know Your Potential Partner

Many times, while creating an attractive dating profile, we focus on showcasing ourselves but forget to express interest in knowing our potential partner. People value being known and supported, especially by romantic partners, where this understanding feels unique. Research shows that the most appealing profiles highlight a genuine desire to know and support a partner. The promise of being truly understood attracts others, as the need to feel known is a fundamental human desire.

4. Do Not Leave Any Gaps

Incomplete dating profiles are a big letdown. They show a lack of effort and interest, which can leave a poor first impression. First impressions matter, especially on dating apps, where your profile is the only way strangers get to know you.

Don’t approach it with a defeatist attitude, thinking it won’t work. A pessimistic outlook is never attractive and will only drive potential matches away. Take the time to complete your profile thoughtfully—it’s worth it.

5. Post Current Photo

Your face is a mirror to your mind, reflecting your true self. It’s important to be remembered for who you are today, not how you looked years ago in high school. Always post current photos when dating, as your partner wants to see the real you.

Outdated pictures often lead to mismatched expectations and disappointment. Include a mix of photos like headshots, full-body shots, and candid moments that reveal your hobbies and personality. Use clear, well-lit, high-resolution images. Avoid filters, as they can create a false impression. Show your true self with confidence.

6. Make Your Intentions Clear

There is no need to play hide and seek with your potential dating partner. Be upfront about your expectations from the start. If you’re unsure about what you want, it’s okay to admit it. Say that you’d like to explore compatibility and see where the relationship leads. If you’re someone who doesn’t enjoy mind games, make it clear what that means for you. Let them know you want a connection without unnecessary drama, chaos, or emotional baggage. Honesty sets the right foundation for any relationship.

In a nutshell, creating an effective dating profile requires authenticity, showcasing your hobbies and interests, and expressing a genuine desire to know your potential partner. Complete your profile thoughtfully, post current photos, and be clear about your intentions. By embracing these tips, you can craft a profile that reflects your true self and attracts a meaningful, lasting connection.

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.

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.