In episode 39 of the Better Relationships Podcast, Dr. Dar Hawks, The Relationship Healer, explores the nuanced topic of relationship breaks and their potential impact on a couple's dynamic. Through a personal anecdote and expert insights, Dr. Dar delves into the seven stages of relationships and how breaks can either be beneficial or detrimental depending on the relationship stage you resonate with and your life circumstances.

Dr. Dar begins by recounting a poignant personal story about a past relationship, setting the stage for a comprehensive discussion on the complexities of taking breaks. She introduces the seven stages of relationships: the Googly Eyes stage, the Adapting stage, the Bickering stage, the Stability stage, the Collaboration stage, the Reconnection stage, and the Complimentary stage. Each stage is examined to highlight how breaks can serve as either a self-care strategy or a potential risk to the relationship.

Listeners are guided to assess their own relationships, considering factors such as the length of time together, life experiences, and willingness to seek professional support. Dr. Dar emphasizes the importance of clear communication, mutual agreements, and understanding individual needs when contemplating a break.

The episode also introduces the Five Sovereign Relationship Needs—Love and Belonging, Freedom, Fun, Power, and Safety and Survival—and how these needs influence the perception and impact of taking a break. Dr. Dar provides practical advice on how to communicate the need for a break, set boundaries, and ensure that the break serves its intended purpose without causing further strain.

For those seeking deeper insights, Dr. Dar invites listeners to take the Sovereign Relationship Needs assessment at needs.drdarhawks.com and offers her support through coaching sessions available at drdarhawks.com. Tune in to gain a better understanding of the role breaks can play in nurturing or challenging your relationship, and learn how to navigate this delicate process with empathy and clarity.

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If you’re here because you care deeply, but feel confused, unseen, or like you’re carrying more of the emotional weight, you’re in the right place.

This podcast is for women who are thoughtful, self-aware, and trying to understand what’s actually happening in their relationship before making big decisions.

Start with clarity:

• Understand what you need to feel safe and supported → https://needs.drdarhawks.com
• Learn tools to steady communication and restore emotional safety → https://toolkit.drdarhawks.com
• Explore private sessions with Dr. Dar → https://drdarhawks.com/work-with-me

New episodes are released roughly every other week.

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You can leave a comment on your favorite podcast platform, or better yet, contact me through my website https://drdarhawks.com. Your questions and reflections matter here.