A Partner Exercise for Honest Communication

Sometimes it is difficult to know where to start when desiring to communicate honestly with loved ones. This week's Tool for Wellness is a partner exercise that will allow you and your loved one(s) to set clear intentions and lay a foundation for healthy communication.

• As with all Tools for Wellness, begin by taking time in the morning for yourself to meditate and connect with your heart space.

• From this place of deep calm and compassion, reach out to your loved one and ask them if they are willing to talk with you about your shared relationship.

• If they agree, sit with them, eye to eye, face to face and invite them to make a mutual commitment with you to one another.

• Ritualize this commitment by saying some variation of the following words to your loved one: "I am committing to you that I will always do my best to be open, honest, kind and loving and I will always communicate with you truthfully. I hope that you can make the same commitment to me, because I really need that in this relationship."

• Then, invite your loved one to say some variation of the same words back to you.

• Together, ponder the sentiment and power of what has been exchanged.