Discover your love language

2 februari 2024

What is Love…?

I won't continue the famous lyrics, but if you know the song, you will now hear it in your head and feel feelings associated with it. Love is a whirlwind of emotions that can make us laugh and cry - sometimes at the same time. Memories of family, friends, partners and heartbreak flood our minds. Love takes on countless shapes and colors and adds depth to our lives every day. This month we celebrate the beauty of Pure Love Stories - connections with the people who warm our hearts and who mean the most to us.

Family ties

The first connections we make are with our families. Those who are there from the beginning: parents, siblings, grandparents, cousins, aunts and uncles - they show us what love is, become the first we love and shower us with their affection in return. For most of us, the bonds we share with our close relatives are unbreakable, lifelong bonds. If you are lucky enough to have family members who always stand by you, love you unconditionally and are there for you when you need them, then give them an extra long and warm hug the next time you meet.

Friendship ties

Friends are the family you choose for yourself. They are the ones who truly understand us. They hold our darkest secrets, stand by us at every turn of life, and somehow their souls fit together with ours like two pieces of a puzzle. These are the people with whom you can just be yourself without apologizing, the ones who distract you after a painful breakup and cheer you up when you're feeling down. And just as you would do anything for them, they would do the same for you. Pick up the phone today, call or text just to let them know you're thinking about them.

Romantic partnership

Now let's talk about romantic relationships, the people who add an extra dose of sparkle to our lives. They are the ones who make our hearts race, with whom we laugh and dream, with whom we plan a future and want to grow old. Romantic love is a special kind of magic, a connection that sets off fireworks in our souls. So, whether you've been together for years or are just starting a new chapter, take a moment to express your appreciation for the person who holds your heart. Live your love story to the fullest and create new memories together because this is the love that ignites our hearts.

Connection of Hearts

As we celebrate the unique connections we share with our loved ones, how about deepening those relationships through understanding and individual expression of love? Just as our family members, friends, and partners bring different colors and forms of love into our lives, they also have unique preferences for how they give and receive love.

The 5 Love Languages: Unlock the Secrets of Connections

Understanding how we show and receive love in our own unique ways is crucial for strong, lasting bonds. In dr. Gary Chapman's book "The 5 Love Languages: How to Succeed in Communication in a Relationship" introduces the concept of the "5 Love Languages", which identifies five primary ways to express and perceive love.

What are the 5 love languages?

The 5 love languages can help you communicate more effectively with your partner and improve the quality of your connection. Several love languages, with different emphasis, can apply to you.

Let's take a closer look at each of the 5 love languages:

1. Praise and recognition

This is your love language when words have immense meaning for you. Verbal expressions of love and appreciation such as compliments, encouragement and praise are your ways to feel loved and valued.

2. Willingness to help

You feel loved when your partner performs services for you, such as cooking, doing chores, or running errands. It shows consideration and willingness to make your partner's life easier.

3. Gifts from the heart

If your love language is receiving gifts, symbols of love speak volumes. These gifts don't have to be extravagant; it's the thought and effort behind the gift that counts most.

4. Time for two

You feel most loved when you have your partner's undivided attention, e.g. full attention during conversations, special dates and time together without distractions.

5. Physical closeness

Physical touch is about the power of physical connection. Holding hands, hugging, kissing and cuddling are all ways to express love.