Rono & Sierra

13/08/2024

Have you ever heard of the concept of the"Couple Bubble?" Imagine it as this cozy, almost magical space that a couple creates around themselves—a sanctuary where the noise of the outside world fades away, leaving room for just the two of you.

Inside this bubble, you feel safe, secure, and deeply connected. It’s a place where you can nurture your relationship, away from the stress of work and the complexities of family dynamics.

But like anything that brings comfort, there’s a shadow side to the Couple Bubble that I’ve come to realize. When you’re wrapped up in this protective space for too long, it’s easy to lose perspective.

You might start to feel isolated, as if the world outside doesn’t quite understand the challenges you’re facing. And when conflicts arise—and they always do—it can feel like you’re navigating these rough waters alone, just the two of you against the world or even each other.

This is where the metaphor of a “Pebble in the shoe” comes in. It’s those small, nagging issues that might seem insignificant at first, but over time, they create discomfort and even pain in your relationship. Left unaddressed, these little pebbles can grow into something much bigger, something that threatens the peace of your Couple Bubble.

I’ve learned that one of the most effective ways to avoid this trap is by expanding your bubble—letting others in. Specifically, by connecting with other couples who are on a similar journey.

There’s something incredibly powerful about surrounding yourselves with like-minded couples who are willing to share their experiences openly and honestly. It normalizes the struggles you face as a couple because you start to see that others have been through the same challenges. It’s not just you. And that realization alone can be incredibly liberating.

When growth minded couples come together, it’s like creating a new, larger bubble—a “Coupledom” mentality. In this expanded space, you find that the very challenges that once seemed so isolating are actually common. You’re not alone. This shared understanding fosters a supportive environment where you can co-create solutions and learn from each other’s journeys.

Stepping out of the confines of your Couple Bubble and into a broader community is something I now see as essential. It’s not just about protecting your relationship from external pressures; it’s about embracing connection, shared insights, and mutual support.

In doing so, you discover a strength and growth that you might never have found on your own. It’s a reminder that while the Couple Bubble is a beautiful and necessary space, true relationship evolution happens when we open ourselves up to the wisdom and experiences of other like minded couples.

(Curious about what the Coupledom bubble might offer your relationship? DM me to find out)

07/08/2024

“It’s typically not safe for men to share. And the reason why you don’t know they’re growing is because they’re not going to share that with you because if they share something with you, a lot of times it gets weaponized or used against them later.” ~ Rono

https://sistershipcircle.com/ep-82-rono-sierra-on-how-to-have-your-man-meet-you-in-conscious-partnership/

07/08/2024

This post speaks profound truth to what it takes to be in a Conscious Partnership. Conscious Partnership is a journey of deep connection, intentionality, and mutual growth. It is something I am deeply passionate about and actively practicing in my own life, as well as with all the couples that make up the Eden World community.

CONSCIOUS RELATIONSHIPS
By Shelly Bullard

"We are approaching a period of time when relationships are ready to go through a major redesign. The current paradigm isn’t working. People are unsatisfied in love; people don’t know how to make relationships work.

And, believe it or not, this isn’t a bad thing. Because when systems break-down, that’s when they change. I believe that’s what’s happening in the area of intimate partnership. The break-down is forcing us to move towards conscious love.

So what exactly is a conscious relationship?

It's a romantic relationship in which both partners feel committed to a sense of purpose, and that purpose is growth. Individual growth. Collective growth as a couple. Growth that makes the world a better place.

As of now, most people get into relationships to satisfy their own personal needs. This might work for a few years, but eventually the relationship fails us, and we end up unsatisfied as a result.

But when two people come together with the intention of growth, the relationship strives towards something much greater than gratification. The partnership becomes a journey of evolution, and the two individuals have an opportunity to expand more than they could alone. Deep satisfaction and long-term fulfillment arise as a result.

So if you’re someone who feels called to take your experience of romantic love to the next level, below are four qualities that characterize what being a conscious couple is all about. Welcome to the path of the conscious relationship. This is next-level love ...

1. The conscious couple is not attached to the outcome of the relationship - growth comes first.

Not being attached to the outcome of the relationship does not mean you don’t care what happens! It also doesn’t mean that you don’t have fantasies about how the relationship will turn out.

What it means is: you’re more committed to the experience of growth than you are to making the relationship “work.”

The reality is, we’re here to grow. Physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually. When growth stops, we automatically feel like something’s gone wrong. Because it has. Without growth, we aren’t fulfilling our soul’s purpose.

Unfortunately, relationships today tend to stifle growth more than enhance it. This is one of the main reasons we’re failing at romantic love.

We want our partners to act in a certain way, we repress ourselves to please others, and soon enough, we feel small, oppressed and puzzled about who we’ve become. This, inevitably, makes the relationship feel like a cage that we want to break out of. But the unfortunate truth is: we’ve caged ourselves.

The conscious couple values growth more than anything else because they know this is the secret to keeping the relationship alive. Even though growth is scary (because it takes us into the unknown), the couple is willing to strive towards expansion, even at the risk of out-growing the relationship. Because of this, the relationship maintains a natural feeling of aliveness, and love between the couple does, too.

2. Each person in the relationship is committed to owning their s #*t.

Conscious couples know that we all have wounds from the past, and they understand that these wounds will inevitably be triggered, especially in a relationship. In other words, they expect to feel abandoned, trapped, rejected, overlooked and any other sh*tty feeling that arises when we bond closely with another person.

Most of us still believe that relationships should only feel good, and when bad feelings surface, something has gone terribly wrong. What we fail to see in this situation is that these sh*tty feelings stem from our own faulty patterning! These issues are not caused by our partners; they’re caused by our beliefs.

The conscious couple is willing to look at their past and current issues in relationships because they know that by facing these beliefs systems, they can evolve into a new relationship-reality. Dysfunctional patterns will dissolve, but only when we take responsibility for them, first.

3. All feelings are welcome and no internal process is condemned.

In a conscious relationship, there’s room to feel anything. Not only that, there’s room to express those feelings and fantasies to your partner. This is edgy territory… it’s not easy to do. But it’s also one of the most healing things we can experience in a partnership.

It’s rare to be completely honest about who you are, and to stretch yourself to let your partner do the same. You may not like what you hear; in fact, it may trigger the hell out of you. But you’re willing to be triggered if it means your partner can be authentic.

Like I already said, we’re used to molding and changing ourselves to please people we love because we don’t want them to stop loving us! This stifles the love out of our connections.

The only option is radical honesty: revealing parts of ourselves that are hard to share, and letting our partners do the same. This leads to feeling known, seen and truly understood — a combination that will automatically enhance your love.

4. The relationship is a place to practice love.

Love, ultimately, is a practice. A practice of acceptance, being present, forgiveness, and stretching your heart into vulnerable territories.

Sometimes we treat love like it’s a destination. We want that peak feeling all the time, and when it’s not there, we’re not satisfied with what the relationship has become. In my mind, this is missing the whole point of love.

Love is a journey and an exploration. It’s showing up for all varied nuances of your relationship and asking yourself, What would love do here?” The answer will be different every time, and because of this, you’ll get to grow in ways you never have before!

The conscious couple is fiercely committed to being the embodiment of love. And through their devotion and practice, love shows up in their lives and relationship in ways they would’ve never imagined before."

06/08/2024

If you’re on the growth path or the spiritual path, you know what it takes to be in relationship. And you know that surrounding yourselves with other incredible couples makes a difference. Check out our highly curated community for high functioning couples that are up to big things in the world. Eden World.

05/08/2024

Deep Dive into Conversations: Navigate the tender, challenging discussions with your partner that you’ve avoided.

New Tools & Techniques: Introducing the "Tender Reproach," a groundbreaking tool to help you separate from triggers and open up to new possibilities.

What's beautiful about stepping into a space that's unknown is it creates new possibilities for your relationship. It allows you to explore new areas and extend your map of reality with one another.

🗓️ The Salon happens on: August 17, 2024 at 11am PT

This is your chance to sail into new adventures and unlock the untapped potential of your relationship. See you there!

With love,
The Eden Design Team

Non-members can register at https://edenworld.org/guest

30/07/2024

Was thrilled to be a part of Jonathon Aslay's weekly live stream recently. We covered some good ground on relationship, commitment, dating and more. Check it out.

FREE Discovery Call with Jonathon► https://jonathonaslay.com/coachingJoin My VIP Group for $7-- https://jonathonaslay.com/midlifelove How Men Choose Their So...

27/07/2024

This rendezvous doesn't require reservations, fancy outfits, or even leaving the house (unless you want to for that perfect bottle of wine).

Check out Weekend Rendezvous: Blindfolded Bites

This playful adventure will bring some excitement, with a delicious twist! Think of it as a fun sensory adventure that'll have you dripping with anticipation, guessing flavors, and maybe even feeding each other a little something special (say what 😉)

Check out the 3rd photo for the things you need for this date night. When you have all those things, let’s get down to business. Here’s the step by step guide.

Prep the Bites: Prepare bite-sized portions of at least 5-7 different foods that fit your theme. Consider textures, temperatures, and flavors that will surprise and delight.

Set the Mood: Dim the lights, light some aromatic candles, and put on some ambient music to create a sensual atmosphere.

Blindfold Time: Have your partner sit comfortably. Gently blindfold them and let them know you'll be guiding them on a delicious adventure.

The Big Reveal: Present the first bite on a spoon or fork. Encourage them to savor the flavors and textures. What spices do they taste? Does it remind them of anything?

Guessing Game: After they've had a good taste, have them guess what it is. Offer water to cleanse their palate before moving on to the next bite.

Switch Roles: After a few bites, it's your turn to be blindfolded! Let your partner take the lead and enjoy the surprise.

The Grand Finale: Once you've finished all the bites, reveal the mystery foods and share a good laugh.

If you’re feeling adventurous, add a playful twist! For each correct guess, your partner gets to choose a reward (a massage, a silly dare, an article of clothing removed etc.). For each incorrect guess, it's your turn to receive a reward!

As the last bite is savored and the blindfolds come off, a delicious mix of flavors lingers on your lips – a reminder of the playful adventure you've just shared.

Let the night unfold organically, fueled by the heightened senses and rekindled connection. After all, the most arousing dessert is often the one you have to savor slowly, bite by delicious bite.

Happy eating! 😉

25/07/2024

What makes a great relationship? What makes a happy relationship?

I was listening to a podcast recently where the host and guest discussed this very question. According to them, the most joyful, fulfilled, and empowered relationships come from couples who consistently put in the work on themselves and their partnership.

I couldn’t agree more.

Many people look at my husband, Rono, and me and say, "Wow, your relationship is amazing!" And it is, but it's amazing because we put in the work. We consider our relationship as our "North Star," valuing it above all else.

Whenever we hit a bump in the road, we see it as an opportunity to deepen our connection, improve our communication, and learn more about each other and ourselves. Facing challenges head-on.

As the Eden principle says, “What’s in the way, is the way”, we believe that the toughest obstacles often invite the most significant growth.

If you’re not growing together, then you’re growing apart. Always choose to grow together and put in the work or you will most likely end up as a statistic.

If you're ready to deepen your connection and create the best relationship possible, then we invite you to join us for complimentary Masterclass where you'll learn from experts and other incredible growth-minded couples.

Grab your spot at https://edenworld.org/wisdomjam

20/07/2024

Looking to unwind and reconnect with your special someone? We've got the perfect rendezvous for a steamy and romantic weekend together. Here’s the weekend rendezvous #2-The Scrub-a-Dub-Dub of Love.

Unwind and reconnect with your special someone in a luxurious bubble bath for two!

Transform your tub into a Romantic Oasis and create a luxurious bubble bath for two! (No tub? No problem—use the shower!). Here’s how to set the perfect mood.

Light some candles. Pillar candles or flameless tea lights placed around the bathroom will create a warm, inviting ambiance.

Turn on soothing music. Set the mood with a playlist of calming music. Opt for classical, jazz, or even create a custom playlist of your favorite love songs together. We like more upbeat stuff.
Create a spa-like atmosphere. Add a few drops of essential oil to the bathwater. Lavender is known for its relaxing properties, while jasmine sets a romantic mood. This is the perfect way to set the mood for relaxation, intimacy, and conversation.

Want to add some extra sizzle? Include favorite chocolates or chilled grapes on a tray beside the tub.

Don't forget the most important ingredient - YOU! Put away your phones and focus on connecting.

Hot baths can be incredibly relaxing, lowering cortisol (the stress hormone) and promoting the release of oxytocin (the bonding hormone). This relaxed state can make you feel more open and receptive to your partner, fostering deeper connection. Plus, it’s fun!

So let the bubbles, music, and soft lighting create a romantic atmosphere for a night of relaxation, connection, and pure enjoyment with your partner.

Will you try this out with your special someone? Let us know in the comments and tag your partner below!

Happy Bathing! 😉 🛀

18/07/2024

What the Heck is a Relationship Container? 🤔

Ever wondered what people mean when they talk about "setting a container" in a relationship? Well, let's dive in!

A container is a defined, boundaried space that allows two people to get clear on whatever they need to discuss. In relationships, clarity is everything. Miscommunications often arise from assumptions and misunderstandings. By setting a container, you create a dedicated time and space to ensure both partners fully understand each other.

Here’s a simple breakdown:

Request a Container: The person who needs to share something asks for a container. For example, “Hey, do you have five minutes to talk about our weekend plans?”

Define the Scope: Clearly state what you need to discuss. It helps to ask, “What do you need me to listen for or be available for?”

Set a Time: Agree on a timeframe. If the topic is more significant, schedule more time. For instance, “Can we talk for an hour this weekend about our upcoming trip?”

Confirm Understanding: Before diving into the conversation, ensure you’re both on the same page. Ask, “What did you hear me say?”

Reflect back: Show your partner you understand by summarizing what they've said.

Remember, containers come in all shapes and sizes! It could be a quick check-in or a deep, heart-to-heart. The key is to use them regularly. By setting containers, you ensure that both partners feel heard and valued, preventing small issues from escalating into larger conflicts. This practice leads to a more harmonious and connected relationship.

Ready to give it a try?

Set your first container and experience the clarity it brings to your communication. You can also download our free Sacred Space guide to help you set your container. Just click the link here for your guide.

And if you want more of these tips and practices to uplevel your relationship then join us for complimentary Masterclass where you'll learn from experts and other incredible growth-minded couples.

Grab your spot at https://edenworld.org/wisdomjam

16/07/2024

Is your amour perlahan pudar (Indonesian for "slowly fading")?

Statistics paint a bleak picture: long-term love often loses its lustre. But for the discerning few, passion endures.

Ditch the mainstream. Our curated community is an enclave for discerning couples committed to cultivating enduring intimacy within their relationship.

Imagine: reigniting the spark, not with fleeting trends, but with timeless practices fostered by a supportive peer group.

Intrigued? Private message for entry consideration.

13/07/2024

Disagreements are a normal part of any relationship. But how you handle them can make all the difference. Instead of falling into the trap of criticism, thriving couples choose curiosity.

Here's a step-by-step guide to put this powerful tool into action:

Step 1: Take a Breath (and Maybe a Break):

Before diving into the disagreement, acknowledge your own emotions. Are you feeling defensive or angry? If so, it might be wise to take a short break to cool down. It can help you approach the conversation with a clearer head. You can also share, “I am feeling a little heated or angry, so I would like to pause so I can come back to this conversation with love”.

Step 2: Ask Open-Ended Questions:

Instead of launching into accusations, ask questions that encourage your partner to share their perspective. For example, "Can you tell me more about why that bothers you?" (Be mindful of creating traps if you are triggered - genuine curiosity is key).

Step 3: Active Listening is Key:

Pay close attention to what your partner is saying, both verbally and nonverbally. Avoid interrupting or formulating your rebuttal while they're speaking. Validate their feelings with phrases like "I understand you might be frustrated" or "It sounds like this is important to you."

Step 4: Seek to Understand, Not Win:

The goal here isn't to "win" or prove you're right. It's to understand where your partner is coming from. This doesn't mean you have to agree with them, but it does mean acknowledging their perspective.

Step 5: Find Common Ground:

Once you both feel heard and understood, look for potential solutions. Look for areas of agreement and build on those to find solutions together. Is there a way to address both of your needs?

Step 6: Express Appreciation:

Even in a disagreement, take a moment to appreciate your partner's willingness to listen and communicate. Thank them for sharing, and express your commitment to finding a solution together.

Remember:
There are always three sides to every story - yours, mine and the truth
Curiosity doesn't mean agreeing with everything your partner says.
It's about understanding their experience and finding a path forward that works for both of you.

What are your best tips for practicing curiosity in your relationship? Share your thoughts in the comments below so we all can learn together.

12/07/2024

Most relationships start to fizzle over time. The honeymoon phase wears off and stagnancy sets in. But not us! Our relationship is the hottest it’s ever been and we’re more connected and in love too!

What’s our secret?

🔥We put our relationship first
🔥We plan our intimacy so it happens
🔥We talk about our desires openly with each other
🔥We treat each other with respect and care
🔥We prioritize connection
🔥We don’t take things too seriously
🔥We play daily physical touch games
🔥We’re constantly learning & growing together
🔥But the most special of our secret sauces?...

We surround ourselves with other inspiring couples who are also committed to being great at loving each other.

You are the sum of the five couples you spend the most time with. Your relationship is a mirror of your closest circles. Invest in relationships that inspire and uplift you, and watch your love life flourish.

We specialize in curating exclusive couples experiences so you don’t have to. Want in? Drop a 🔥 in the comments to gain access.

07/07/2024

Here is a nature flash for your soul. 🎆⚡️

06/07/2024

Hey lovely twosomes!

We’re starting new posts called the Weekend Rendezvous - your one stop shop for handpicked activity or ideas you can do with your beloved this weekend; all designed to keep the spark alive and to amplify the joy in your relationship.

Whether you're craving adventure, seeking relaxation, or simply eager to try something new, we've got you covered.

And to kick off, we’re giving you this sizzling date night idea that can uplevel your romance from ordinary to EPIC. The Sensual Massage for two…

First things first- Ambiance is key!

Dim the Lights: Light some candles or use soft lights. The soft glow creates a romantic and inviting ambiance. (check the comments for the lighting we use)

Set the Mood with Music: Curate a playlist of calming and sensual music, whatever sets the mood for you both.

Warm Up the Massage Oil: Choose a natural massage oil that's gentle on the skin like coconut or avocado oil. Warm it up in the micro for a few seconds or slightly by rubbing it between your hands for a more luxurious touch.

Prepare the Space: Clear a comfortable area on the floor with pillows, blankets, or a massage table. Fresh towels and washcloths are a nice touch.

PRO TIP: Put a waterproof mattress cover on top of your bed (over the covers and pillows and everything) to make your entire bed a massage haven! SEE COMMENTS FOR SUGGESTIONS AND LINKS

Now for the massage!

Start slow & communicate: Begin with gentle strokes on the back, shoulders, and neck. Talk throughout, checking pressure.

Focus on relaxation: Use long, gliding motions with gentle to medium pressure. Pay attention to tense areas like shoulders and lower back.

Incorporate circular motions: Once relaxed, use your thumbs or fingertips in circular motions on shoulders, lower back, and glutes (avoiding the spine).

Explore lighter touches: As you move down the body, use lighter feathery strokes on arms, legs, and feet.

Heighten the senses: Trace your partner's ears, massage their scalp, or gently touch their palms and feet.

Don't forget, it's for two! Take turns and let your partner return the favor.

Focus on connecting with your partner and enjoy the power of touch. Less is more! Gentle, intentional touch and a calming atmosphere are key.

After your massage, the night is yours! Cuddle up, enjoy the afterglow, or let the relaxed mood lead you wherever you desire. Happy date night!

29/06/2024

Love isn't just a feeling, it's a verb, the kind that moves, evolves, and thrives through action.

It's about choosing to nurture and invest in your relationship every single day. Whether you're holding hands on a sunset stroll or laughing over breakfast, every moment counts.

In the hustle and bustle of life, it's easy to slip into routine, forgetting to water the seeds of love you've planted. But here's the truth-You are either growing together or growing apart.

So make a conscious effort to choose growth, to choose love in action.

Challenge yourselves to break free from the shackles of routine, to step out of your comfort zones, and to explore the depths of connection with your partners. Together, you can create a love that's not just enduring, but thriving.

So here's to love – the verb that keeps your hearts dancing and your souls soaring. Let's keep growing together, one beautiful step at a time.

25/06/2024

Another amazing Oswego Sunset glow!

22/06/2024

Ever found yourself caught in the whirlwind of a heated argument with your partner, where emotions run high and words can wound deeply?

It's a common experience for many couples. In these moments, it can feel like there's no way out but through, often leading to more hurt and misunderstanding. Here’s a relationship tip that thriving couples do when they’re in an argument..

Take Breaks to Breathe.

When tensions rise, pausing during an argument allows you to cool down and approach the conversation with a calmer, clearer mind.

A study from the University of California, Berkeley, found that couples who took breaks during conflicts reported higher relationship satisfaction and better conflict resolution over time.

Here’s a step-by-step process on how you could take a break in an argument..

• Acknowledge the Heat: The first step is recognizing when things are getting too heated. Look for signs like raised voices, tense body language, or interrupting each other. (What works for Sierra and I is saying “Breathe with me” Then going on to step two).

• Communicate Your Need: Let your partner know you need a break to calm down. Use "I" statements like "I'm feeling overwhelmed right now. Can we take a short break and come back to this later?"

• Set a Timeframe: Agree on a timeframe for your break. This could be anything from 15 minutes to an hour, depending on the intensity of the situation.

• Cool Down, Don't Stew: During your break, use calming techniques like deep breathing, meditation, or going for a walk. Resist the urge to dwell on the argument or rehearse what you'll say next.

• Revisit, Not Resume: Once you're both feeling calmer, come back together and revisit the conversation, not resume the fight. Focus on understanding each other's perspectives and finding solutions together.

Taking breaks during disagreements isn't a sign of weakness - it's a sign of emotional intelligence and maturity. Yay we’re adults now 😘

By giving yourselves space to cool down, you'll be able to communicate more effectively and reach a resolution that works for both of you. So next time things get heated, remember to hit the pause button and come back stronger together.

Ready to put this tip to the test? Share your experience with taking breaks in the comments.

15/06/2024

You've conquered careers, built a beautiful life together, but do you ever feel something is missing? If you are like many of us, the busy schedules and endless responsibilities can leave little time for meaningful connection, causing your relationship to feel strained or disconnected.

Did you know that couples who engage daily in simple acts of touch – like hugging, kissing, hand-holding, and cuddling – report significantly higher levels of relationship satisfaction and find it easier to resolve conflicts?

As a person who’s #1 Love Language is physical touch, I can attest to touch making or breaking our relationship. When we first got together I loved my now wife, and knew she loved me. However, even knowing this… I never felt loved by her.

It wasn’t until we took the 5 Love Languages quiz, suggested by a coach friend of ours. I realized that my #1 Language was physical touch. My wife liked to snuggle and have physical intimacy but simple gestures of touch throughout the day were not existent. So what ended up happening was that I did not get that reassurance in a language that I understood that she loved me.

Once we knew this she practiced giving me touch throughout the day and when she spoke to me or asked me something. All of the something like magic, I felt loved by her… hazzah!

The warmth of your touch keeps our love alive.

When you engage in physical touch with your partner, your body releases oxytocin, often referred to as the "love hormone." Oxytocin helps build trust, reduce stress, and increase feelings of connection. This hormone plays a crucial role in helping couples feel more connected and loved.

Here are a few ways to weave more touch in your relationship, a little touch goes a LONG way.

Start small: Initiate a hand-hold during your commute, a goodbye kiss before work, a lingering hug after dinner or simply reaching out to touch a shoulder or hand when talking.

Make it playful: Give each other shoulder massages while watching TV, have a dance in the kitchen to your favorite song, or surprise each other with a playful touch on the arm.

Schedule snuggle time: Block out 15 minutes before bed for cuddling, no phones allowed! This creates a routine for physical closeness.

The warmth of your touch plays a vital role in keeping love alive in your relationship. By incorporating daily physical affection, you can strengthen your bond, enhance your satisfaction, and navigate conflicts with greater ease.

So, take a moment each day to connect with your partner through touch—it’s a simple yet profound way to nurture your love.

Let us know in the comments below! What's your favorite way to show affection to your partner? We'd love to hear your ideas and spread the love!