Relationship as a Spiritual Path: Love Between Equals

We want a new kind of love in the 21st century. In relationships, we want to be treated as equals and to be seen and known for ourselves. Equal and reciprocal love between adults, in marriage and committed partnerships, is in many ways more problematic and unhappy now than ever, after decades of struggle for gender equality and sexual freedom. 21st century love requires new psychological and spiritual skills that are go beyond secure attachment or “improved communication.”

This day-long workshop will show specifically how and why well-meaning couples who “know how to communicate” still get caught up in harmful emotional patterns if they do not understand their inner lives, as individuals. Real dialogue requires the creation of a “mindful gap” in which partners relate as adults who recognize and take responsibility for their own thoughts and feelings.

Drawing on object relations, Jungian theory, Dialogue Therapy (originated and practiced by the speaker), as well as mindfulness and Buddhist teachings, this workshop will give an overview of what has to happen in order for couples to change their emotional behavior and learn how “mind the gap” between them with respect and compassion.