Many people find relationships difficult and are not always sure why that is the case and what they can do about it. But why are relationships so challenging? Nowhere are our emotions and our 'stuff' triggered and tested more than in relationships with other people. This is not because we are stupid or deliberately difficult. In fact, I believe that most people are intelligent and do the best they can with what they know. The real answer is that relationships are challenging because we are not particularly well made, none of us are.

What can we do about it? We need to continue to develop the brain we left home with. In particular, we need to work to integrate our executive functions with our limbic functions and the key to better integration is our emotions. Only when we are better integrated, we are mature enough and well enough to engage in safe and satisfying relationships that are based on compassion, acceptance and a real connection. The neuroscience behind relationships enables us all to approach ourselves and others with less judgement and with better understanding of what makes us who we are.

This talk will cover the neuroscience behind relationships as well as a number of important topics that are essential to understanding how we relate to one another and what happens when we do, such as emotional triggers and ‘landmines’, the mirror neurones, the two kinds of love we are capable of, safety in relationships and more.

• This talk is about all adult relationships. It is not limited to romantic partnerships or marriages.

• This talk is relevant to LGBT and heterosexual people.

• No prior knowledge is necessary, only a curious, engaged mind.

• There will be plenty of practical, useful knowledge to take away that people can be put into practice immediately.

• Please be aware that personal disclosure is not expected but confidentiality and safety rules will be enforced.

• This talk is not a substitute for professional help if you need it.

• Young people are welcome but people under 16 should be accompanied by an adult.

• Handouts will be provided.

• Coffee and tea will be available. Feel free to bring your own lunch.