What if the strength of your relationship isn’t built in the big moments — but in the small ones you barely notice? In this episode, Angela explores the power of “turning toward” your partner through everyday micro-moments of connection. Drawing from the Gottman Method and Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), this conversation breaks down what bids for connection look like in real life, why they matter so deeply, and how tiny, intentional responses can rebuild closeness, trust, and emotional safety over time.

Relationship Reset Challenge

This week, practice turning toward intentionally: Notice one bid for connection each day and respond with presence — a look, a question, a touch, or a few moments of attention. At the end of the day, reflect: Did I turn toward love today?

Resources Mentioned

• Gottman: gottman.com/blog/turn-toward-instead-of-away/
• The Seven Principles for Making Marriage Work (John Gottman)
• Hold Me Tight + drsuejohnson.com
• gottman.com/couples/
• Arms Open Counselling resources and blog posts: www.armsopencounselling.com

Connect with Us

If today’s episode resonated with you, share it with a partner or friend! Follow @ArmsOpenCounselling on Instagram and Facebook for more relationship wisdom, behind-the-scenes therapy insights, and heart-centered tips.

Presented by: Angela Kingma

Edited by: Tayte McHugh

Criticism, contempt, defensiveness, and stonewalling — they show up in every relationship at some point. In this episode, Angela breaks down what these “Four Horsemen” actually look and sound like in everyday life, why they happen, and the small, simple shifts couples can make to create more connection and less conflict. This is a practical, judgment-free guide to recognizing harmful patterns early and choosing healthier communication that feels good for both partners.

Relationship Reset Challenge

Choose one Horseman you fall into most often and practice its antidote every day for the next week:

• Criticism → Gentle startup
• Contempt → One daily appreciation
• Defensiveness → Own 2%
• Stonewalling → Take a break with a return time

Resources Mentioned

• John & Julie Gottman – The Seven Principles for Making Marriage Work
• Arms Open Counselling resources and blog posts: www.armsopencounselling.com

Connect with Us

If today’s episode resonated with you, share it with a partner or friend! Follow @ArmsOpenCounselling on Instagram and Facebook for more relationship wisdom, behind-the-scenes therapy insights, and heart-centered tips.

Presented by: Angela Kingma

Edited by: Tayte McHugh

In this episode, Angela explores how just five intentional hours a week can transform your relationship. Drawing from the Gottman Method and Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT), she shares how to build daily rituals of connection that strengthen trust, friendship, and emotional safety. Discover how small, consistent habits can rekindle closeness — no grand gestures required.

Relationship Reset Challenge

Create your own 5-Hour Love Plan this week. Ask each other:

• What’s one ritual we can add in the morning?
• What does a comforting reunion look like for us?
• How can we bring back a little fun or play?
• When can we schedule a weekly check-in?

Remember — it’s not about perfection; it’s about presence.

Resources Mentioned

• John & Julie Gottman – The Seven Principles for Making Marriage Work
• Dr. Sue Johnson – Hold Me Tight (EFT framework for emotional connection)
• Arms Open Counselling resources and blog posts: www.armsopencounselling.com

Connect with Us

If today’s episode resonated with you, share it with a partner or friend! Follow @ArmsOpenCounselling on Instagram and Facebook for more relationship wisdom, behind-the-scenes therapy insights, and heart-centered tips.

Presented by: Angela Kingma

Edited by: Tayte McHugh