To say a person is emotionally available means being present in a way that goes beyond physical proximity.

Emotional availability is a critical component in any pop in of relationship.

Here are some examples.

Happy couple touching foreheads at home

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Authenticity is about being genuinely ourselves.

It’s about not judging ourselves with harshness, she adds.

You’re not afraid to apologize

No one gets it right all the time.

They are happy to discuss their thoughts and feelings, but seem to give little regard for yours?

You show affection

Comfort levels with affection vary from person to person.

Regarding relationships, the importance of emotional availability cannot be overstated.

It is the cornerstone of meaningful and fulfilling relationships.

Emotional availability has mental health benefits.

It can help relieve stress and anxiety.

It also fosters a sense of belonging.

With all those benefits, its worth the effort to nurture your emotional availability.

Working on your self-awareness can help with that process.

Understanding your emotions, reactions, andtriggerscan greatly enhance your emotional availability.

Learning how to manage your own emotions and exercisingempathyfor others feelings can also help nurture your own emotional availability.

Working through your own process may give you a greater capacity to engage others.

As you work to develop this skill, give yourself grace.

Effective communicationis a great start.

Showing empathy and patience is also important, both with yourself and others.

Building your emotional vulnerability takes time and effort.

And seeing the changes you desire in your relationship takes time as well.

Be clear on your boundaries.

What makes you uncomfortable?

What takes you more time and space to process?

Insist on having those boundaries respected.

And be willing to seek help if you need it.

A mental health professional can help you with the tools you gotta get to a healthier place emotionally.

Above all, focus on taking care of yourself physically and mentally.

Being in a healthy space and practicing your own self-awareness is a critical step in the process.

Identifying and acknowledging your emotions without judgment is an essential first step.

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Conversations Matter.