The exhilarating rush of emotions and sensations that light up your world when you embark on a new romantic relationship can be a thrilling rollercoaster ride. This potent combination of joy, anticipation, and anxiety is often referred to as new relationship energy, a term that encapsulates the intoxicating cocktail of feelings experienced during the early stages of a budding relationship.
What is New Relationship Energy?
In the world of relationship psychology, new relationship energy (NRE) is a term used to describe the intense, often euphoric emotions that accompany the formative phase of a romantic relationship. This unique phenomenon is characterized by heightened sexual and emotional fervor, an obsessive preoccupation with the new partner, and an overwhelming sense of optimism about the potential of the relationship.
The Underlying Chemistry of New Relationship Energy
New relationship energy isn’t just a psychological phenomenon; it has a biological basis too. When we enter a new relationship, our brains release a flood of neurochemicals such as dopamine and oxytocin, which are responsible for feelings of pleasure, relaxation, and bonding.
At the same time, cortisol levels tend to rise, leading to increased anxiety and obsession, while serotonin levels may decrease, contributing to the emotional rollercoaster that is often associated with NRE. This chemical cocktail can create a heady mix of pleasure and anxiety, making NRE an intense and often overwhelming experience.
Distinguishing Between Core Emotions and Anxiety
In the throes of NRE, it’s common to experience a blend of core emotions and anxiety. Understanding the difference between these two types of emotions is key to navigating the complexities of new relationship energy effectively.
Core Emotions
Core emotions are adaptive and help us understand our needs. They include fear, anger, grief, joy, excitement, disgust, and sexual excitement. These emotions are a crucial part of our emotional health, helping us navigate and respond to our environment.
During the early stages of a relationship, these core emotions are often amplified, leading to a heightened sense of excitement, sexual arousal, and joy. These positive emotions form the pleasurable aspect of NRE.
Anxiety
Anxiety, on the other hand, is a response to perceived threats. It often manifests as feelings of unease, tension, and worry. In the context of NRE, anxiety can stem from fears of rejection, abandonment, or the uncertainty of the future.
Anxiety can sometimes masquerade as positive thoughts. For instance, picturing a long-term future with a new partner can be an anxious thought disguised as optimism. This is because such thoughts often represent an attempt to control the uncertainty of the future, which can trigger anxiety.
Related Article: Anxiety Treatment Methods
Navigating the highs and lows of NRE involves managing anxiety and understanding our core emotions. Here are a few strategies to help you do this:
Regulating Anxiety
Anxiety regulation techniques can be instrumental in managing the nervous energy associated with NRE. Some effective strategies include deep breathing exercises, grounding techniques, and positive self-talk.
Exploring Core Emotions
Getting in touch with your core emotions can help you understand and navigate your feelings during NRE. Pay attention to where you feel these emotions in your body and try to connect with them. Be aware of any anxious thoughts that arise and allow them to pass without judgment.
Related Article: Center For Emotional Health
Using Fantasy to Explore Core Emotions
Fantasizing about your new partner can be a healthy way to explore your core emotions. Whether it’s picturing a romantic date or a passionate encounter, these fantasies can help you connect with your feelings of excitement and sexual desire. It’s important to remain aware of any anxiety that may arise and to differentiate between pleasurable fantasies and anxiety-driven thoughts.
The Role of Conscious Relating in NRE
Conscious relating is a concept that involves bringing awareness and intentionality to all our relationships. This approach can be particularly beneficial in navigating new relationship energy. By being mindful of our emotions, needs, and patterns, we can make conscious decisions about our relationships and manage the intensity of NRE more effectively.
Managing Changes in Existing Relationships
If you’re in a non-monogamous relationship or dating multiple people, the emergence of NRE can necessitate changes in your existing relationships. It’s crucial to communicate these changes honestly and respectfully, taking into account the feelings and needs of all parties involved. Striking a balance between indulging in the excitement of NRE and maintaining your existing relationships can be a delicate task, but with conscious effort, it can be achieved.
Embracing the Ebb and Flow of New Relationship Energy
The intensity of NRE will inevitably wane as the relationship matures, and that’s perfectly normal. Rather than clinging to the initial rush of emotions, it’s important to embrace the evolving dynamics of the relationship. By understanding that NRE is a transient phase, we can appreciate the experience for what it is – a unique and exciting chapter in the unfolding story of the relationship.
Experiencing new relationship energy can feel like a thrilling emotional rollercoaster. It’s a unique blend of joy, excitement, and anxiety that characterizes the early stages of a romantic relationship. Understanding and navigating this phenomenon requires a degree of self-awareness and emotional literacy.
By acknowledging and exploring our core emotions, managing our anxiety, and practicing conscious relating, we can make the most of the NRE phase. More importantly, we can ensure that our new relationships evolve in a healthy and fulfilling manner, enriching our lives in the process.