LAURA’S PUBLISHED ARTICLES INDEX
Here’s a current list of all Laura M. Brotherson’s published articles from Meridian Magazine, Hitched Magazine, and SelfGrowth.com. We hope this makes for easier browsing and quicker access to these valuable resources to help strengthen your marriage and family!
“Developing Sexual Self-Mastery Before Marriage”
By Laura M. Brotherson, Meridian Magazine, January 12, 2021
Many find it difficult when dating to know what is appropriate and what is not appropriate physically before marriage. The feelings you get when being affectionate with a special someone are exhilarating and can be difficult to keep in check before tying the knot. Actively developing sexual self-mastery before marriage is vital to having a healthy intimate relationship within marriage. This article is a brief excerpt from Chapter 6 of the book From Honeymoon to Happily Ever After: 23 Keys to Prepare for a Sextraordinary Marriage by marriage counselor and sex therapist Laura M. Brotherson.
“What to Discuss – Before the Honeymoon”
By Laura M. Brotherson, Meridian Magazine, June 23, 2020
Knowing what to talk about or how to talk about sex before tying the knot is often difficult. Couples aren’t sure what’s appropriate to discuss and may not have much practice talking about it, so it can seem uncomfortable. Some discussion of sexual intimacy before marriage, though, is very important so that couples can get on the same page and prepare to build a better intimate foundation going into marriage. This article is an excerpt from Chapter 5 of the book From Honeymoon to Happily Ever After: 23 Keys to Prepare for a Sextraordinary Marriage.
“What to Know – Before the Honeymoon”
By Laura M. Brotherson, Meridian Magazine, May 5, 2020
What will sex be like? What do I need to know?” These are the primary questions young adults have in preparing for the honeymoon and the intimate relationship in marriage. Gaining knowledge and deepening one’s understanding of sexual intimacy is one of the best ways to be prepared and not have fear. This article is an excerpt from Chapter 4 of the new book From Honeymoon to Happily Ever After: 23 Keys to Prepare for a Sextraordinary Marriage.
“Alleviating Fear and Anxiety About Intimacy”
By Laura M. Brotherson, Meridian Magazine, April 19, 2020
It’s normal to be a little nervous going into the honeymoon and intimate dimension of marriage. You may have some apprehensions, but these can be alleviated through preparation, knowledge, and good communication with your sweetheart and others. This article is an excerpt from Chapter 3 of the new book From Honeymoon to Happily Ever After: 23 Keys to Prepare for a Sextraordinary Marriage.
“Developing a Healthy Sexual Mindset”
By Laura M. Brotherson, Meridian Magazine, February 25, 2020
Sexuality is not always seen in a positive, healthy light, which causes there to be uncertainty, shame, and uneasiness surrounding this sacred topic. Because healthy sexuality begins in the mind, it is paramount that individuals develop a positive sexual mindset in order to prepare for and be able to create a sextraordinary marriage. This article is an excerpt from Chapter 2 of the new book From Honeymoon to Happily Ever After: 23 Keys to Prepare for a Sextraordinary Marriage.
“6 Steps to Prepare for Intimacy in Marriage”
By Laura M. Brotherson, Meridian Magazine, January 1, 2020
Sexual intimacy is one of the most beautiful experiences that a husband and wife can share. Without necessary preparation, though, it can be one of the most difficult aspects of marriage to navigate. The question many young people have is what concrete steps they can take to prepare for a sextraordinary relationship in marriage while still single and keeping the law of chastity. This article is an excerpt from Chapter 1 of the new book From Honeymoon to Happily Ever After: 23 Keys to Prepare for a Sextraordinary Marriage.
“From Honeymoon to Happily Ever After”
By Laura M. Brotherson, Meridian Magazine, December 4, 2019
Bestselling author of the books And They Were Not Ashamed and Knowing HER Intimately, Laura M. Brotherson, has written another fabulous book specifically to help couples prepare for the honeymoon and the intimate marital relationship in an applicable, effective, and respectful way. This article is an introduction to her latest and greatest book From Honeymoon to Happily Ever After: 23 Keys to Prepare for a Sextraordinary Marriage.
“Characteristics of Healthy and Unhealthy Sexuality – Part 2”
By Laura M. Brotherson, Meridian Magazine, May 7, 2019
To raise the bar on the intimate relationship in our marriages, couples need to know what healthy sexual relationships are if they want to be able to create a “sextraordinary marriage.” In part 1 and part 2 of this article, you will find 20 characteristics that help determine what defines healthy and unhealthy sexuality.
“Seeing Sex in a Positive Light”
By Laura M. Brotherson, Meridian Magazine, April 22, 2019
Many young adults have never had a healthy, positive conversation about sex as a wholesome component of marriage, which contributes to their anxiety, nervousness and fears about sexual intimacy in marriage. My hope is to inspire us all to find ways to reclaim the divinity of marital sexuality by shining some light on this sacred and vital topic in more positive and affirming ways. We can and must do better at communicating the wholesome nature of sexual relations within marriage…the way God designed it.
“How the 12 Steps Can Transform Anyone”
By Laura M. Brotherson, Meridian Magazine, January 28, 2019
The power of the gospel principles taught in the 12 Steps applies to every one of us and can help us more profoundly come unto Christ. Since we all have unhealthy habits and need help putting off our “natural man” tendencies toward sin, anyone can benefit from more fully trusting in God and turning our lives over to Him to access His enabling, redeeming and strengthening power.
“Your Toolbox for Tackling Depression — Part 1”
“Your Toolbox for Tackling Depression — Part 2”
By Laura M. Brotherson, Meridian Magazine, November 13, 2018
As a therapist, my hope is to provide a comprehensive toolbox of easy and practical tips—all in one place—that you can immediately put into practice to make things better as you overcome depression.
“Preparing for the Honeymoon—10 Tips for the Wedding Night”
By Laura M. Brotherson, Meridian Magazine, July 11, 2018
It’s wedding season! With intimacy issues as one of the major causes of divorce and dissatisfaction in marriage, couples would be wise to prepare for the honeymoon and the intimate aspects of marriage just as much as they prepare for the wedding day. In this article, Laura discusses 10 tips to prepare for the wedding night to help create a Sextraordinary Marriage right from the start.
“Transcendence and Surrender in Lovemaking”
By Laura M. Brotherson, Meridian Magazine, October 9, 2017
Transcendence in lovemaking is the ability to relax into the experience. It is letting go of control with a “take me” attitude. It’s the ability to be vulnerable and surrender to the present moment, trusting that all will be okay… In this article, Laura highlights a portion of Chapter 12 — “TRANSCENDENCE” in her new book Knowing HER Intimately: 12 Keys for Creating a Sextraordinary Marriage.
“Keeping the Spark Alive in Your Intimate Relationship”
By Laura M. Brotherson, Meridian Magazine, August 24, 2017
How many ways can you add the fun, intimate ingredients of novelty, newness and adventure to your bedroom activities? It doesn’t take much to add some creativity to your lovemaking. Here’s help for brainstorming ways to incorporate more creativity and newness into your sexual relationship moving you toward a “Sextraordinary Marriage.” In this article, Laura highlights a portion of Chapter 11 — “TREATS” in her new book Knowing HER Intimately: 12 Keys for Creating a Sextraordinary Marriage.
“Putting the Fun and Flirtation Back into Your Marriage”
By Laura M. Brotherson, Meridian Magazine, July 18, 2017
A missing ingredient in many couples’ lovemaking repertoire is a dash of fun and flirty playfulness. It’s almost a mindset you’re wanting to develop in your marriage–to naturally think in fun and flirty ways. If teasing, playfulness and fun have not been a focus of your marriage, I encourage you to make it a priority and a personal area of expertise. In this article, Laura highlights a portion of Chapter 10 — “TEASING” in her new book Knowing HER Intimately: 12 Keys for Creating a Sextraordinary Marriage.
“Getting in Sync Emotionally and Sexually”
By Laura M. Brotherson, Meridian Magazine, June 11, 2017
Couples aren’t always good at reading between the lines to “know” and “read” each other well. It’s a skill to be able to sense each other’s inner state and respond accordingly. In the bedroom, much of the communication is conveyed nonverbally. It is important for couples to be skilled at sending and receiving effective verbal and nonverbal cues in order to tune in to each other well within lovemaking. In this article, Laura highlights a portion of Chapter 9 — “TUNED-IN” in her new book Knowing HER Intimately: 12 Keys for Creating a Sextraordinary Marriage.
“It’s Not All About Technique”
By Laura M. Brotherson, Meridian Magazine, May 2, 2017
Getting educated sexually is a big deal. I rarely meet husbands or wives who fully understand how each other are wired sexually. Men often think there’s nothing to learn because it’s all pretty easy in their minds. The reality is that there’s quite a bit more to know when you factor in the intricacies of female sexuality. What you don’t know can certainly hurt you, or at least create a lot of unnecessary pain and negative sexual experiences in your marriage. In this article, Laura highlights a portion of Chapter 8 — “TECHNIQUE” in her new book Knowing HER Intimately: 12 Keys for Creating a Sextraordinary Marriage.
“The Ingredient Your Marriage Might be Missing”
By Laura M. Brotherson, Meridian Magazine, April 10, 2017
A missing intimate ingredient for many women in their marriages is non-sexual touch or affection that doesn’t always have strings attached to sex. Before marriage, there is generally plenty of affection between a man and a woman, but after marriage, many women argue that once sex is an option, then the tender touch that used to occur is nearly all but forgotten. In this article, Laura highlights a portion of Chapter 7 — “TOUCH” in her new book Knowing HER Intimately: 12 Keys for Creating a Sextraordinary Marriage.
“Using Conversation to Connect Intimately”
By Laura M. Brotherson, Meridian Magazine, March 23, 2017
Communication has many important purposes in marriage. It is a vital component of both marital and sexual satisfaction. Conversation is not only necessary for couples to be able to resolve problems well, but it’s also the primary fuel for emotional intimacy. Emotional intimacy is the primary fuel for a woman to want to be sexually intimate with her spouse. In this article, Laura highlights a portion of Chapter 6 — “TALK” in her new book Knowing HER Intimately: 12 Keys for Creating a Sextraordinary Marriage.
“Bridges to Desire” — Better Preparation for Intimacy
By Laura M. Brotherson, Meridian Magazine, February 1, 2017
One of the most important parts of transitioning into lovemaking is developing the mental discipline to close down the many mental windows open in a woman’s mind. A woman must be able to “turn off,” in order to be able to “turn on!” Given the extra steps women generally need to be able to get to a state of genuine interest in connecting sexually, the concept of “Bridges to Desire” may be helpful. In this article, Laura highlights a portion of Chapter 5 — “TRANSITION” in her new book Knowing HER Intimately: 12 Keys for Creating a Sextraordinary Marriage.
“Making Intimacy in Marriage a Priority”
By Laura M. Brotherson, Meridian Magazine, January 4, 2017
Making time for making love is a significant challenge in our fast-paced lifestyles. Making your spouse a priority is a necessary ingredient in making your spouse feel loved. In a loving, mutually respectful relationship when sexual intimacy is a high priority for one spouse, then it needs to be a high priority for the other. In this article, Laura highlights a portion of Chapter 4 — “TIME” in her new book Knowing HER Intimately: 12 Keys for Creating a Sextraordinary Marriage.
“Creating a Secure Foundation for Intimacy”
By Laura M. Brotherson, Meridian Magazine, December 5, 2016
Husbands and wives are both wired for connection. But, it is especially true for women when it comes to sex. Emotional intimacy is a wife’s primary fuel for connecting sexually with her husband. It’s the quality of the emotional relationship that matters more than physical aspects like sexual technique. The very best sex is built on having an emotionally bonded, securely attached relationship. In this article, Laura highlights a portion of Chapter 3 — “TENDERNESS” in her new book Knowing HER Intimately: 12 Keys for Creating a Sextraordinary Marriage.
“Spiritual Principles for Determining What’s Okay Sexually”
By Laura M. Brotherson, Meridian Magazine, October 31, 2016
As a sex therapist, at the top of the list of things Laura gets asked about the most are the “what’s okay and what isn’t” type questions. These questions and concerns often act as mental distracters and inhibitors to true intimacy. Resolution is needed in order for women, in particular, to have the peace of mind necessary to allow lovemaking to flow freely. In this article, Laura highlights a portion of Chapter 2 — “THOUGHTS – Sexy is a State of Mind” in her new book Knowing HER Intimately: 12 Keys for Creating a Sextraordinary Marriage.
“Sexuality is Part of Your Divine Nature”
By Laura M. Brotherson, Meridian Magazine, October 3, 2016
Many women struggle with the sexual relationship in their marriages. They don’t see sexuality as part of their divine identity and struggle to fully embrace and develop that aspect of their marriage relationship. In this article, Laura highlights Chapter 1 — “TRANSFORMED – Embracing Your Identity as a Sexual Being” in her new book Knowing HER Intimately: 12 Keys for Creating a Sextraordinary Marriage helping couples understand the necessity of making one’s sexuality a high priority and a necessary part of one’s wholeness.
“12 Keys for Knowing HER Intimately”
By Laura M. Brotherson, Meridian Magazine, September 8, 2016
Bestselling author of the book And They Were Not Ashamed: Strengthening Marriage through Sexual Fulfillment, Laura M. Brotherson, has written another fabulous book for couples to strengthen their marriages intimately. This article is an introduction to her latest and greatest book Knowing HER Intimately: 12 Keys for Creating a Sextraordinary Marriage.
“Common Concepts in Counseling with Couples”
By Laura M. Brotherson, Meridian Magazine, April 16, 2014
Couples struggle with some common concepts when they come to me for counseling. I thought it might be helpful if I were to provide a bit of a free counseling session by sharing those concepts to help couples begin to shift their thinking in the following ways…
“Letting Go of Resentment in Marriage”
By Laura M. Brotherson, Meridian Magazine, January 22, 2014
Marci was reticent to come to counseling and struggled to even want to try to save her marriage. Her husband justified his behavior with other women by insisting that he was just being friendly and trying to be helpful to people and that she was overreacting. The pain, hurt and betrayal she had been feeling throughout their marriage had grown so deep that the anger and resentment seemed too much to overcome.
“The Infidelity Formula”
By Laura M. Brotherson, Meridian Magazine, October 14, 2013
Contrary to popular wisdom infidelity is a potential danger for almost all couples. What concerns me is the lack of awareness regarding how easily a “good person” gets from “That could never happen to me” to “I can’t believe this has happened to me!”
“Adventures of Flat Spouse”
By Laura M. Brotherson, Meridian Magazine, September 16, 2013
“When my wife and I travel out of town, we take a travel-sized version of each other along.”
“When Husbands Aren’t Interested”
By Laura M. Brotherson, Meridian Magazine, July 26, 2013
You might think that it’s always the wife that isn’t really interested in sex. But the reality is that men too have concerns and issues that get in the way of their natural desire to connect sexually.
“Marriage is a Gift from God”
By Laura M. Brotherson, Meridian Magazine, May 9, 2013
How is marriage such a gift? I realize there are some that may question that notion! Marriage is God’s way of creating the ultimate opportunity for fulfillment of the deepest longings of the human soul.
“The Bait and Switch in Marriage”
By Laura M. Brotherson, Meridian Magazine, Mar 27, 2012
“What happened to my wife? She used to be so affectionate before marriage!” This expression is often heard from husbands who wonder how their marital relationship could turn out so differently than they expected.
“5 Marriage Tips from a Couple Celebrating Their 50th Anniversary”
By Laura M. Brotherson, Deseret News, Apr 23, 2011
It isn’t every day that a couple reaches that fabulous milestone of 50 years of marriage. My good friends, Morris and Elaine Bastian, have successfully done just that!
“The Good Girl Syndrome”
By Laura M. Brotherson, Meridian Magazine, Oct 29, 2010
The Good Girl Syndrome encompasses the negative or unproductive thoughts, beliefs, attitudes, feelings and behaviors that inhibit one’s responsiveness and enjoyment of the sexual relationship in marriage.
“Being Positive about Sex”
By Laura M. Brotherson, Meridian Magazine, Oct 24, 2010
I applaud anyone who is willing to publicly promote a positive message about God’s gift of sexual intimacy in marriage. His designs for the sexual relationship can always use a few more good promoters in order to counteract the constant barrage of negative messages.
“Raising the Bar on Date Night”
By Laura M. Brotherson, Meridian Magazine, Sep 6, 2010
Couples generally do the best they can when it comes to having a date night, so I really hate to be too hard on them about it. But it may be time to step it up a notch. Consider these four rules for raising the bar on date night.
“Understanding Sexual Compatibility In Marriage”
By Laura M. Brotherson, Hitched Magazine, Aug 2010
Although sexual incompatibility may be inherent in marriage, taking these steps will increase sexual connection and enjoyment.
“The Twilight Obsession and Its Effect on Marriages”
By Laura M. Brotherson, SelfGrowth.com, Meridian Magazine, Jul 2, 2010
If Twilight-obsessed women would direct even half of their intimate and erotic energies towards their husbands and the real-life fantasy available to them, their marriage relationship would be greatly strengthened and become infinitely more satisfying.
“Making Passion a Priority”
By Laura M. Brotherson, Meridian Magazine, Apr 28, 2010
Women have an untapped power that can be awakened when they embrace and cultivate their sexuality for its full expression within marriage. Men regularly rate sex as a high priority in their marriage but often feel that it is much less important to their wives.
“Finding Couple Time — Q&A”
By Laura M. Brotherson, Mormon Times, Oct 10, 2009
Even though our lives are all so busy, we tend to find time for the things that are important to us. The key is to set your priorities and schedule your time and energy accordingly.
“Characteristics of a Healthy Sexual Relationship in Marriage“
By Laura M. Brotherson, Meridian Magazine, Aug 12, 2009
Characteristics of a healthy sexual relationship in marriage include mutual fulfillment, open communication, a satisfactory frequency of intimate relations, and emotional connection beyond the bedroom.
“Affair Proofing Your Marriage, Part 2”
By Laura M. Brotherson, Meridian Magazine, Jul 30, 2009
Marriage is worth our best efforts. God bless us all to safeguard our marriages from sin, and create the joy and fulfillment that this sacred relationship affords. You CAN avoid being the next casualty in Satan’s snare of infidelity.
“Affair Proofing Your Marriage, Part I”
By Laura M. Brotherson, Meridian Magazine, Jul 14, 2009
Extramarital relationships may be enticing, but they are nothing more than Satan’s great counterfeit of the real thing in marriage. Do what you must to strengthen and protect your marriage, and keep it alive and thriving.
“Love Letters”
By Laura M. Brotherson, Meridian Magazine, Jul 15, 2009
How long has it been since you wrote your sweetheart a love letter? My challenge to you is to write some loving thoughts about your spouse, to your spouse—this week.
“Take The Marriage Myths Quiz”
By Laura M. Brotherson, MormonTimes.com, Jun 20, 2009
Myths about marriage often lead people to make unwise decisions. See for yourself how “with it” you are in knowing the truth about marriage by taking this marriage myths quiz.
“Standing Strong for Marriage”
By Laura M. Brotherson, Meridian Magazine, May 15, 2009
It warms my heart to see such courage and conviction in the face of such an overwhelming onslaught of contempt. I join Miss California, Carrie Prejean, in her call to stand for marriage, and never back down. We must not ever allow ourselves to be silenced. What’s at stake is simply too great.
“American Idol’s Jordin Sparks Has it Right”
By Laura M. Brotherson, Meridian Magazine, Apr 27, 2009
I am infinitely impressed with Jordin Sparks. Her courage and conviction have me cheering. I’m weary of people thinking there’s no one left in the world who actually thinks it’s a smart idea to save sex for marriage.
“Taking the Heat for Marriage—Miss California and the Rest of Us“
By Laura M. Brotherson, Meridian Magazine, Apr 24, 2009
As a marriage strengthening advocate, I’m all for supporting those who are willing to take the heat for the divine institution of marriage. Marriage was defined and created by God. It’s not up for human redefinition.
“Embracing Sexuality for Marriage’s Sake”
By Laura M. Brotherson, Meridian Magazine, Apr 14, 2009
God designed each of us as sexual beings. We must embrace that fact. It’s not only our marital relationship, but also our personal wholeness that is at stake.
“Happily Married Couples Needed”
By Laura M. Brotherson, Meridian Magazine, Mar 18, 2009
Thriving in marriage is a worthy goal, but it’s more than just for the benefit of the couple. There are too few examples of happily married couples to show young people that long-term happiness in marriage IS possible. Happily married couples are needed now more than ever to shine a light on the joys and possibilities in marriage.
“Be Your Spouse’s Chocolate Substitute”
By Laura M. Brotherson, MormonTimes.com, Jan 31, 2009
This Valentine’s Day, commit to becoming an expert at loving your spouse in the way they need to be loved. These gifts from the heart can help you become the “chocolate” substitute in your loved-one’s life.
“Edward, Self-Mastery and the Marital Fire”
By Laura M. Brotherson, Meridian Magazine, Jan 14, 2009
Exquisite efforts at self-mastery coupled with a willingness to protect rather than destroy make Edward Cullen of Stephenie Meyer’s Twilight series an easy object of admiration. I’m inspired by what his character traits could add to our lives, and how it could strengthen our marriages.
“Happy Holidays for Your Honey”
By Laura M. Brotherson, Meridian Magazine, Dec 24, 2008
Don’t make your husband last on your list this Christmas. Make the holidays a little happier for your honey by paying attention to the Four A’s: Appreciation, Admiration, Attention and Affection.
“Your Relationship Wish List“
By Laura M. Brotherson, Latter-day Woman Magazine, Dec 1, 2008
This Christmas make a list of everything you want your marriage to be—as if you could have it all! What you focus on you get more of, so be more conscious of your thoughts and focus on what you want rather than on what you don’t want.
“Reflections on the Protection of Marriage”
By Laura M. Brotherson, MormonTimes.com, Nov 8, 2008
Through multiple state initiatives, traditional marriage has been preserved yet again by no small miracle. As faithful and committed followers of Christ, how do we stand strong for the divine order of marriage, while also conveying God’s love and concern for all His children? What will be our role in promoting marriage and morality, as society strays further and further from the things of God?
“Fireproof Your Marriage”
By Laura M. Brotherson, Meridian Magazine, Oct 9, 2008
It’s not every day that you find a movie that is dedicated to strengthening marriages. Fireproof is just that. It’s got action and drama, love and humor, and intense emotion. Yet it sends a message that is rarely seen on the big screen that your marriage is worth fighting for by including God in the process.
“Thriving in Marriage“
By Laura M. Brotherson, Latter-day Woman Magazine, Oct 1, 2008
How many truly happy, long-term married couples do you know that you could accurately describe as having a thriving marriage relationship? What does it take to not just get by in marriage…but to really thrive!?
“Palin, Politics and Premarital Sex — Counteracting the ‘Juno’ Effect”
By Laura M. Brotherson, Meridian Magazine, Sept 5, 2008
By Laura M. Brotherson, MormonTimes.com, Sept 13, 2008
One of the things that I think bothers me the most is that while the Palins are trying to be loving and supportive, no message is being sent about the poor choices that were obviously made, or that sex outside of marriage is not a good idea. Such a message may have been conveyed privately, but it’s the public message I am most concerned about when you know impressionable ears are listening.
“Good Girls Do!“
By Laura M. Brotherson, Latter-day Woman Magazine, Aug 1, 2008
In our efforts to teach youth that sexual activity is reserved for marriage–that good girls don’t…before marriage–we forget to mention that after marriage good girls do! That mental transition never fully occurs with many couples.
“Parents are Chicken! — Finding the Courage to Talk to Your Kids about Sex”
By Laura M. Brotherson, Meridian Magazine, June 3, 2008
Most parents know they should talk to their children about sex, but don’t know what to say, or where to begin. How do we find the courage to take on this parental responsibility that is otherwise quite terrifying for many of us?
“Finding Self-Confidence in the Bedroom”
By Laura M. Brotherson, Meridian Magazine, May 7, 2008
Sexual self-confidence is the self-assurance — and God-assurance, even — that one is loved and acceptable to one’s self and to God. This is coupled with sexual knowledge and application within marriage.
“Don’t Kid Yourself: Lovemaking Takes Effort”
By Laura M. Brotherson, Meridian Magazine, January 18, 2008
By Laura M. Brotherson, SelfGrowth.com
The mechanics of “having sex” are fairly simple, but really “making love” and developing a good intimate relationship take some time and effort. Movies, pornography and other media tell us that sex is — or should be — easy, which is a set-up for problems in a real relationship. For those who have ingested pornography, it’s difficult to have a healthy and accurate perspective of sexuality and to separate fantasy from reality.
“Date Night is NOT Optional”
By Laura M. Brotherson, Meridian Magazine, October 19, 2007
By Laura M. Brotherson, SelfGrowth.com
A babysitter costs a lot less than a marriage counselor, or a divorce, for that matter. Date night is not optional for those couples who want to stay close and connected.
“Six Tips to Strengthen Your Marriage Sexually”
By Laura M. Brotherson, Meridian Magazine, April 30, 2007
By Laura M. Brotherson, SelfGrowth.com
Sexual intimacy is as important for the health and vitality of the marriage relationship as are emotional closeness and spiritual connection. Sexual nourishment that feeds both husband and wife is the dessert of married life. Cultivating your sexual potential in marriage leads to greater mental, emotional, and physical health, happiness and wholeness.
“The Spirituality of Sex”
By Laura M. Brotherson, Meridian Magazine, March 27, 2006
Sexuality is a sacred and innate part of our being, designed by God not only for procreation, but also for expressions of love in marriage. There are few things that can bring greater joy and richness to a husband/wife relationship than spiritually connected sex.
“The Greatest Gift You Can Give Your Children”
By Laura M. Brotherson, Meridian Magazine, December 28, 2005
One of the best gifts we can give our children is a mother and father that love each other. Parents who maintain a strong and vibrant marriage set a positive example of the inevitable ups and downs of marriage, while also showing that problems can be worked through. This creates a haven of security and well-being from which children can flourish.
“How Do I Get My Spouse to Change?!”
By Laura M. Brotherson, Meridian Magazine, November 28, 2005
Many of us focus on the imperfections of our spouse, thinking rarely of our own weaknesses and the role we play in creating the dynamics of our marriage. It’s the “how-do-I-get-my-spouse-to-change” syndrome. We think if only our spouse would change this or that, then we’d be happy.
“A Light in the Darkness—Finding Healing and Wholeness from Depression”
By Laura M. Brotherson, DeseretBook.com, November 14, 2005
Laura Brotherson is a Latter-day Saint who learned first-hand how devastating depression can be–and how you can heal from its ravages.
“What’s Okay and What Isn’t, Part II
Dealing with Sexual Differences in Marriage”
By Laura M. Brotherson, Meridian Magazine, October 24, 2005
Determining what’s okay and what isn’t within the intimate marital relationship is no easy task. But if we will take the opportunity to seek God’s perspective on these delicate matters, we can develop greater spiritual self-reliance, and be blessed with greater spiritual insight.
“What’s Okay and What Isn’t, Part I
Determining What’s Okay within the Intimate Marital Relationship”
By Laura M. Brotherson, Meridian Magazine, September 22, 2005
What’s okay and what isn’t? It’s the million-dollar question about sex and the most requested line of questioning I get. Yet it is also the single most complex, delicate, and potentially dangerous topic of discussion there is.
“Cultivating Intimate Desire for Your Spouse”
By Laura M. Brotherson, Meridian Magazine, August 17, 2005
“I’m just not a sexual person. I don’t ever feel sexy.” Feeling amorous and sexy is a state of mind that many women must learn to nurture.
“God’s Wedding Gift — Why Save Sex for Marriage”
By Laura M. Brotherson, Meridian Magazine, August 2, 2005
God has designated sexual intimacy as a “wedding gift” given only to those who are legally and lawfully married. But, are there additional benefits in saving sex for marriage — beyond obeying God’s command? Yes! There are many.
“Divine Designs of Marriage”
By Laura M. Brotherson, Meridian Magazine, July 7, 2005
Marriage is divinely designed as a personal crucible—a refiner’s fire—to smooth off our rough edges, and shape us into our divine authentic self.
“The Adventure of Marriage”
By Laura M. Brotherson, Meridian Magazine, June 8, 2005
God has provided an opportunity and commandment for personal refinement within the adventure of marriage. It is as if marriage itself is an enrollment in an excavation of the heart, mind and soul with the intent to graduate each of us into something more.
“Why Do I Keep Doing That?–Understanding Why We Sin”
By Laura M. Brotherson, Meridian Magazine, May 10, 2005
“Why do I keep doing that?” It’s a common question we ask ourselves regarding our personal sins and less-than-ideal behaviors. Most people want to change, want to be better, but just can’t seem to do so in the way they desire. Understanding some of the causes of sin and developing greater compassion for ourselves and others can help us be more effective in coming unto Christ and healing our hearts of our sins and weaknesses.
“Marriage Traditions — Cultivating Couple Connections”
By Laura M. Brotherson, Meridian Magazine, Mar. 17, 2005
Many families have “family traditions” to strengthen their family relationships. Couples too can cultivate a sweeter and stronger emotional, spiritual and physical connection by creating “marriage traditions” that will draw husband and wife together.
“Don’t Forget the Honeymoon!”
By Laura M. Brotherson, Meridian Magazine, Feb. 17, 2005
With intimacy issues as one of the primary causes of divorce and dissatisfaction in marriage, couples must prepare for the honeymoon and the intimate aspects of marriage, just as they prepare for the wedding day.
“Why Is Sex Such A Taboo Subject in Families?”
By Laura M. Brotherson, Meridian Magazine, Feb. 2, 2005
Why do so few parents correctly and adequately teach their children about sexuality to sufficiently prepare them for safe passage through the teen years, and for a fulfilling intimate experience within marriage?
“Why Is Sex Such A Taboo Subject in Marriage?”
By Laura M. Brotherson, Meridian Magazine, Jan. 6, 2005
Why is it so difficult for couples to openly and honestly address sexual issues with each other? Incredibly, many couples have never had a serious conversation on this subject. Even well educated and otherwise mature adults who can discuss religion, finances and even politics find it difficult to openly and frankly discuss their intimate lives.
“What the Scriptures Teach about Physical Intimacy in Marriage”
By Laura M. Brotherson
For Latter-day Saints, the most critical sources of insight and understanding for issues of importance are the Holy Scriptures and the teachings of the prophets. When it comes to marriage, one topic in particular requires a healthy understanding of the Lord’s perspective—physical intimacy between husband and wife. Yet too often the world rules the dialogue on this subject, ruining our perspective on sexuality.
(Excerpted from Chapter 2—”The Sanctity of Sexual Relations in Marriage”)
Click here for this article in Spanish
“Part I—”Preparing Your Children for Intimacy in Marriage—Preparing to Teach”
By Laura M. Brotherson
(Excerpted from Chapter 14—”Preparing Future Generations…”)
“Part II—”Preparing Your Children for Intimacy in Marriage—What to Teach”
By Laura M. Brotherson
(Excerpted from Chapter 15—”Preparing Future Generations…”)
“Part III—”Preparing Your Children for Intimacy in Marriage—When and How to Teach”
By Laura M. Brotherson
(Excerpted from Chapter 16—”Preparing Future Generations…”)
