In our fast-paced lives, we often find ourselves swept away by daily routines and responsibilities, leaving little time for reflection and conscious living. As clinicians, we frequently advocate for mindfulness to reduce anxiety and create inner peace. But what if we applied this same principle of mindfulness to our marriages? This concept, which I’ve come to call “Consciously Married,” encourages couples to be present in their relationship, notice the details, and make a deliberate effort to nurture their love.
The Power of Mindfulness in Marriage: Mindfulness, at its core, means being fully present in the moment, aware of our surroundings, emotions, and the needs of others. In our professional lives, we strive for validation, continually receiving feedback to improve. Yet, when it comes to our marriages, we often fall into routines, assuming that love will take care of itself. But what if we approached marriage with the same conscious effort we put into our careers?
Assessing Your Relationship: To embrace the concept of being consciously married, start by assessing your relationship. Ask yourself:
- How much time are you giving your spouse? Time is a precious commodity, and allocating quality time for your partner is a vital investment in your relationship.
- How much effort are you putting into your daily life for your marriage? Marriage requires effort and commitment. Consider what actions you can take daily to strengthen your bond.
- What does your marriage need to stay strong? Every relationship is unique. Identifying your specific needs and addressing them consciously can lead to a healthier, happier partnership.
I’ve recently applied this mindset to my own marriage, and the results have been promising. I’ve become hyper-aware of my husband’s needs and love languages, particularly focusing on touch and quality time. Despite our busy and stressful lives, I’ve made a deliberate effort to create time for him, knowing that his support is indispensable to my well-being.
While my husband may not have fully grasped the extent of my conscious efforts, the positive changes in our relationship are evident. He’s started showing his love and appreciation through small gestures, like leaving a cup of coffee on my desk before I start my day. These seemingly minor actions speak volumes and reinforce the idea that being consciously married can transform your relationship.
Being consciously married is a concept that encourages couples to approach their relationships with the same mindfulness they apply in other aspects of life. By taking time to assess your relationship, invest effort daily, and meet your partner’s needs intentionally, you can create a stronger and more fulfilling marriage. So, why not give it a try? Start today, and watch your relationship thrive as you both embrace the beauty of being consciously married.
