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May 2018 Newsletter





Couples Corner

It is easy to settle into a routine when it comes to a relationship, but did you know that trying new things with your partner can lead to a better relationship? Studies have shown that the more frequently you try new things with your partner, the more satisfied you are with your relationship.

When you are trying a new activity, your brain releases dopamine and norepinephrine, two chemicals that are released during the initial phase of a relationship when things feel new and exciting. The article, "Here's a Secret to a Happier Relationship" discusses the benefits of trying new things with your partner and also has a link to a list of ideas for date nights. To read the article click here.



Family Corner

Spending special time with your children can strengthen their emotional well-being, increase feelings of secure attachment, improve their coping skills, and can increase school readiness and achievement. The key elements to make special time special for your children are spending time one-on-one, being fully present, and having fun.

The article "8 Ways to Make "Special Time" With Kids Even More Meaningful" suggests ideas such as giving your child a choice, taking pictures, and remembering your special experience by making an art project about it later. To read the rest of the list and to get special time activity ideas for home and outside of home click here.



Individual Corner

Most people view exercise as having positive benefits for your mind and body. However, it is possible that too much exercise can be a bad thing and it is possible to become addicted to exercise. Consequences of exercise addiction can range from minor problems, such as fatigue and shin splints, to major problems, such as irregular heartbeat and an enlarged heart.
The article "Yes, You Can Get Addicted to Exercise" says that symptoms of exercise addition are similar to the symptoms of other addictions and include:
1. Tolerance - Needing increasing amounts of exercise to achieve desired effects
2. Withdrawal - Anxiety, fatigue, or irritability when you are unable to workout as planned
3. Intention effect - Repeatedly exceeding intended upon limits to the amount of time spent exercising
4. Lack of control - Finding your exercising habits difficult or impossible to keep at a manageable level
5. Time - Spending far more time exercising than is medically recommended
6. Reduction in other activities - Prioritizing exercise over social, work, and other activities
7. Continuance - Continuing to exercise despite illness, injury, or other negative outcomes

Click here to read the rest of the article.



Infertility Corner

Mother's Day and Father's Day can be difficult times for those struggling with infertility. The Ferre Institute offers the following tips for Surviving the Parenting Holidays:

Click here to read the full article

For assistance with your family building journey, call Stephani for an appointment at 217-972-4851


Are you having difficulty getting pregnant? Are you wondering if you might be experiencing infertility? This is the ConnectEdPAIRS corner for infertility. Check here monthly for infertility education and support. Stephani Cave, LCPC specializes in infertility counseling and holds Professional Memberships in the Mental Health Professionals Group of the American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM ) and RESOLVE: The National Infertility Association. Both of these organizations' websites are sources of education and support as well.



Reading Corner

I believe Brene Brown could be required reading for all women. Check out her book, I Thought It Was Just Me (but it isn't): Making the Journey from "What Will People Think?" to "I Am Enough."
 You can read more about Ms. Brown and her research into ordinary courage, vulnerability, and shame on her website htttps://www.brenebrown.com. I look forward to reading what her current research examining men and shame might reveal.



Happy May!
 
We hope you enjoy the ending of the school year, Memorial Day, and the beginning of summer.

Announcement:  Prior editions of the ConnectEdPAIRS newsletter are now available on the Newsletter Archives tab on our website. Check it out here.

Is there a topic you would like featured in an upcoming newsletter? If so, please contact us and let us know. As always, you can call us for assistance in applying any of the information from the newsletter to your personal experience.


All best,
Stephani Cave, LCPC
217-972-4851

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