By DR JANIE LACY MENTAL WELLNESS In my years as a relationship therapist, I’ve observed that lasting love isn’t about finding the perfect person – it’s about building the right foundation together. While many couples focus on the excitement of romance, creating a secure, healthy relationship requires intentional effort, emotional awareness, and consistent nurturing. The good news is that with the right tools and mindset, couples can create relationships that not only endure but thrive through life’s challenges. 1. Establish Emotional Safety First Creating emotional safety means developing an environment where both partners feel secure expressing their feelings without fear of judgment or rejection. This involves active listening, validating each other’s experiences, and responding with empathy rather than criticism. When couples feel emotionally safe, they’re more likely to be vulnerable, honest, and authentic in their communication, which deepens their connection and strengthens their bond. 2. Master the Art of Healthy Communication Effective communication goes beyond just talking – it’s about how we express ourselves and receive our partner’s messages. Practice using “I” statements to express feelings, avoid defensive responses, and learn to pause before reacting during heated moments. Remember that non-verbal communication, like body language and tone of voice, often carries more weight than words alone. Make time for both meaningful conversations and playful dialogue to maintain connection. 3. Maintain Individual Identity While Growing Together Healthy relationships thrive when both partners maintain their individuality while building a shared life. Continue pursuing personal goals, maintaining friendships, and developing individual interests. This independence creates a dynamic relationship where both partners bring fresh energy and perspectives to the relationship, preventing codependency and fostering mutual respect and admiration. 4. Build Trust Through Consistency and Transparency Trust is earned through consistent actions over time. Be reliable in following through with commitments,...... Read more on Full Issue!