Episodios

  • Pleasure is the Key to Relationships that Last
    Apr 10 2025

    To connect with Aaran Solh, founder of Alchemy, visit www.aaransolh.com

    In this video, we dive into the transformative power of embracing pleasure and how it’s the key to creating authentic, fulfilling relationships. Whether you're single or in a relationship, this video will help you understand the difference between long-term pleasure that leads to growth and happiness versus short-term indulgences that can lead to emotional exhaustion and dissatisfaction.

    Key Takeaways:

    ~ Learn how to differentiate between long-term pleasure and short-term indulgence.

    ~ Discover ways to honor your physical, emotional, intellectual, and spiritual needs.

    ~ Understand how knowing your own desires can lead to a more authentic and fulfilling relationship.

    ~ Learn why compromising on core desires can cause frustration, and how to communicate your needs openly.

    Time Stamps: 00:00 – Introduction

    01:20 – Pleasure as the Foundation for True Connection

    03:50 – Connecting with Your Authentic Self

    06:35 – Long-Term Pleasure vs. Short-Term Indulgence

    09:45 – When Compromise is Valuable and When It’s Not

    12:53 – Overcoming the Habit of Compromise

    14:50 – Embracing Pleasure for Long-Term Fulfillment

    17:15 – Bonus: We’ll also explore four areas of life where you can find more pleasure: physical, emotional, intellectual, and spiritual. Each area is broken down with practical suggestions for integrating more pleasure into your daily life.

    REFLECTION QUESTIONS

    1. What brings me the deepest sense of fulfillment and joy in my life right now? Take a few minutes every day to reflect on that and notice what you enjoyed and what you didn’t.

    2. What do I need to feel emotionally and physically nourished in a romantic relationship? Reflect on past experiences and make a clear list of the things that make you feel loved. Be completely honest when you make the list.

    3. How do I prioritize my own desires without feeling guilty or selfish? And if you do feel guilt around pleasure, ask yourself what or who created that guilt in your life and start exploring new philosophies that encourage true enjoyment in life.


    There are four areas of life to look to for pleasure: physical, emotional, intellectual, and spiritual.


    PHYSICAL

    • Exercise and Movement

    • Diet and Nutrition

    • Self-Care

    • Sensual Experiences

    • Sexuality and Intimacy

    • EMOTIONAL

    • Relationships

    • Safety and Vulnerability

    • Self-Acceptance

    • Creativity and Play

    • INTELLECTUAL

    • Curiosity and Exploration

    • Problem Solving

    • Art and Culture

    • Critical Thinking and Reflection

    • SPIRITUAL

    • Connection with the Divine

    • Mindfulness and Presence

    • Purpose and Meaning

    • Nature and Solitude

    • Sacred Rituals

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    22 m
  • Consequences of Freedom and Responsibility in Relationship
    Jan 18 2025

    In this video, we’ll unpack the balance between personal freedom and mutual respect, showing how embracing your deeper will can lead to authentic connections and shared growth. 🔑 You’ll learn: 1️⃣ How to align your desires with your purpose. 2️⃣ The power of clear communication in navigating complexity. 3️⃣ Practical steps for living authentically while fostering deeper intimacy. Download our free relationship app, take quizzes and self-assessments, or follow our relationship guide, Empowered Love, on our website: www.TheAlchemyApp.com Reflection Questions 1️⃣ What does “do what thou wilt” mean to you in the context of your relationships? 2️⃣ How do you balance your personal desires with the needs of your partner? 3️⃣ What have you learned from the consequences of your past choices in relationships? Practical Steps for Living “Do What Thou Wilt” in Relationships 1️⃣ Pause to reflect: Before making a choice, ask yourself if it aligns with your deeper sense of purpose and if it’s not coming from a surface desire for pleasure or immediate gratification. 2️⃣ Embrace consequences: Recognize that every action has both benefits and costs. Be prepared to learn from the outcomes but remain committed to your authenticity. 3️⃣ Honor individuality: Allow yourself and your partner the freedom to pursue personal growth and self-expression. 4️⃣ Communicate openly: Discuss your desires, values, and decisions with honesty. Clear communication builds trust and understanding and may create solutions that are outside the box and that you’d never think of on your own. 5️⃣ Seek shared growth: Treat challenges as opportunities to deepen your connection and grow together. Guided Visualization: Aligning Your Will in Relationships Close your eyes and take a deep breath in, holding it for a moment before exhaling slowly. Let your body relax as you take another deep breath. 1️⃣ Visualize Your Will as a Flame Picture a small, steady flame glowing in your chest. This flame represents your authentic will—the core of who you are and what drives your choices. 2️⃣ Reflect on a Recent Choice Think of a recent decision in a relationship. Did it align with your deeper purpose, or was it guided by fleeting emotions? 3️⃣ Embrace the Duality See this decision as ripples in a pond—some creating connection, others causing disruption. Accept both without judgment. 4️⃣ Set an Intention Silently affirm: “I honor my will, embrace its consequences, and choose authenticity and growth in my relationships.” Download our free relationship app, take quizzes and self-assessments, or follow our relationship guide, Empowered Love, on our website: www.TheAlchemyApp.com

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    9 m
  • Loving Someone Doesn't Mean They Are 'The One'
    Jan 12 2025

    Do you love someone but feel unsure if they’re truly “the one”? Love is one of the most profound experiences in life, but it’s also incredibly complex. In this video, Loving Someone Doesn’t Always Mean They’re ‘The One’, we dive into the layers of love and how to embrace meaningful connections without forcing them into predefined roles. Society often pressures us to believe that one person should fulfill every role—lover, best friend, co-parent, and life partner. But this expectation can lead to misunderstandings and heartbreak. Love comes in layers: care and respect, romantic passion, and physical compatibility. Mistaking one for the whole picture creates stress and disappointment. Download our free relationship app, take quizzes and self-assessments, or follow our relationship guide, Empowered Love, on our website: www.TheAlchemyApp.com Practical Insights

    1️⃣ Reflect on Compatibility Take a step back and assess your relationship holistically. Are your values, goals, and communication styles aligned? Passion alone isn’t enough to sustain a long-term partnership. 2️⃣ Embrace Different Roles Celebrate the unique qualities people bring into your life without forcing them into predefined roles. A great friendship doesn’t have to evolve into a romantic relationship to be meaningful. 3️⃣ Communicate Openly Have honest conversations about expectations, needs, and boundaries. Clarity creates space for authentic connections and avoids misunderstandings. 4️⃣ Redefine Your Love Story Let go of societal pressures to find “the one” who fulfills every role in your life. It’s okay to have different people meet different needs, allowing you to build a community of love and support. Reflection Questions 1️⃣ Have you ever loved someone deeply but felt they weren’t the right romantic partner? 2️⃣ How can understanding the layers of love bring more clarity to your relationships? 3️⃣ Are you open to redefining what partnership means to you? Visualization Practice: Aligning with Love 1️⃣ Take a Breath: Close your eyes and take a deep breath, releasing any tension as you exhale. 2️⃣ Imagine the Room of Connections: Picture yourself standing in a room filled with doors, each representing a different kind of relationship — friendship, romantic love, partnership, or co-parenting. 3️⃣ Choose a Door: Visualize walking toward a door. Open it and step into a space where you feel loved, respected, and aligned with the connection you seek. 4️⃣ Feel the Connection: Take a moment to notice how this space feels. Does it bring you peace, excitement, or clarity? 5️⃣ Anchor the Feeling: When you’re ready, take a deep breath and slowly open your eyes, carrying that sense of understanding with you. Download our free relationship app, take quizzes and self-assessments, or follow our relationship guide, Empowered Love, on our website: www.TheAlchemyApp.com

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    6 m
  • Is It Romance or Friendship? Here's How You Know
    Jan 7 2025

    Romance is about more than passion—it’s about emotional connection, shared goals, and healing old wounds. In this episode, we explore the secrets of lasting relationships and how to navigate the complexities of love.


    Reflection Questions:

    1️⃣ What moments in your relationship have felt truly romantic, even without physical attraction?

    2️⃣ How do you and your partner create emotional safety and intimacy?

    3️⃣ Are there ways you can notice and address your wounded inner child’s presence in the relationship?

    4️⃣ What steps can you take to bring more curiosity and playfulness into your connection?

    5️⃣ How can you and your partner align on shared goals and values for the future?

    6️⃣ Do you understand each other’s love languages, and how can you use that understanding to deepen your bond?


    Practical Steps:

    1️⃣ Create Emotional Safety

    Romance flourishes in a safe emotional space where both partners feel free to express their feelings, fears, and needs without judgment. Emotional safety fosters trust and vulnerability, which deepens your connection over time.

    2️⃣ Reignite Curiosity

    One of the best ways to keep the spark alive is to stay curious about your partner. Regularly ask them about their dreams, feelings, and daily experiences. This curiosity helps you discover new facets of each other and keeps the relationship exciting. You can also use conversation prompt games to discover new things to talk about and share ideas.

    3️⃣ Celebrate Non-Physical Attraction

    Romance isn’t just about physical intimacy. It’s found in shared laughter, meaningful conversations, and the way you support each other during tough times. Recognize these moments as valuable parts of your connection.

    4️⃣ Acknowledge the Inner Child

    Take time to notice when your wounded inner child shows up in your relationship. Are you seeking validation, fearing abandonment, or reacting defensively? Work together with your partner to create a safe space for healing.

    5️⃣ Embrace Ebb and Flow

    Physical attraction naturally fluctuates over time. Trust in your deeper emotional bond during these phases. By focusing on your emotional connection, you’ll navigate these changes with more ease.

    6️⃣ Prioritize Shared Goals

    A shared vision for the future creates a strong foundation for any relationship. Discuss your long-term goals and values, aligning on what you both want to achieve together.

    7️⃣ Align on Love Languages

    Identify how each of you expresses and receives love. Understanding your partner’s love language allows you to meet their needs more effectively. Aligning in how you express love enhances intimacy and minimizes misunderstandings.


    Visualization

    1️⃣ Take a Relaxing Moment

    Sit comfortably and take three deep breaths, allowing yourself to relax.

    2️⃣ Visualize Your Partner

    Picture your partner sitting with you. Focus not on their appearance but on the warmth of your connection.

    3️⃣ Recall a Loving Moment

    Bring to mind a moment when you felt deeply connected. It could be a quiet conversation, shared laughter, being intimate, or simply being together in silence.

    4️⃣ Feel the Connection

    Notice how this memory makes you feel — safe, cherished, and loved. Let these feelings expand in your heart.

    5️⃣ Set an Intention

    End by setting an intention to nurture this emotional connection. Whether through open communication, shared activities, or simply being present, commit to deepening your bond.


    Download Alchemy Connect, our free relationship app, take quizzes and self-assessments, or read our free relationship guide, Empowered Love, on our website: www.TheAlchemyApp.com (link in bio)

    Reflection QuestionsPractical Tips for Strengthening Romantic IntimacyVisualization Practice: Cultivating Intimacy

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    9 m
  • Should You Break Up Even If You Love Them?
    Jan 5 2025

    Letting go is never easy, but sometimes it’s the kindest choice for both partners. Tune in for insights, tools, and reflection prompts to navigate this transformative process.

    🎙️ In This Episode, You’ll Discover:

    1️⃣ Why love alone isn’t enough to sustain a relationship.

    2️⃣ The importance of emotional safety and compatibility.

    3️⃣ Steps to let go of someone you love while honoring your connection.

    Free relating games, quizzes, relationship books, and more @ www.TheAlchemyApp.com

    Reflection Questions

    1️⃣ Have you ever stayed in a relationship longer than you should have, hoping things would change?

    2️⃣ What does unconditional love mean to you, and how can you practice it in challenging situations?

    3️⃣ How can you (or how have you in the past) let go of someone while still cherishing the connection you shared?

    4️⃣ Are there ways to recognize and address your wounded inner child’s presence in the relationship?

    5️⃣ What have your past relationships taught you about your needs and boundaries?

    Practical Steps to Let Go with Love

    1️⃣ Accept the reality. Be honest about whether your needs are being met or if you’re trying to force a connection that isn’t sustainable. Denial only prolongs the pain.

    2️⃣ Honor the love you shared. Even if it’s time to part ways, the love you’ve shared has been meaningful. Reflect on the good moments without resentment or blame.

    3️⃣ Redefine the relationship. Consider transitioning into a different kind of relationship—one rooted in respect and intimacy without the pressure to fulfill romantic or life partnership roles. Whether that means becoming friends, friends with benefits for a while, or simply parting ways with love, choose a path that honors both of your truths.

    4️⃣ Seek what you truly need. Give yourself space to discover connections that naturally align with who you are and what you need. This includes building a life that feels authentic and fulfilling.

    Visualization Practice

    1️⃣ Take three deep breaths, allowing your body to relax.

    2️⃣ Picture your partner or the person you feel conflicted about. Visualize them as they truly are, without expectations or demands.

    3️⃣ Imagine a soft light surrounding them, symbolizing your love and care.

    4️⃣ Now, see yourself stepping back—not as rejection, but as a gesture of freedom for both of you.

    5️⃣ Hold this image in your mind as you affirm: “I release you with love, and I trust we’ll both find what we need.”

    Download Alchemy Connect, our free relationship app, take quizzes and self-assessments, or read our free relationship guide, Empowered Love, on our website: Link in bio

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    7 m
  • Why Vulnerability, Not Control, Unlocks True Connection
    Jan 3 2025

    Have you ever felt trapped in a cycle of control, blame, or defensiveness in your relationships? True intimacy isn’t built on control but on the courage to embrace vulnerability. In this video, I’ll explore why control erodes connection and how vulnerability can transform your relationships into spaces of trust, compassion, and growth. Learn how to identify your triggers, communicate without blame, and invite deeper connection with your partner. ✨ Reflection Questions 1️⃣ How have feelings of powerlessness shown up in your relationships? 2️⃣ What steps can you take to replace control with vulnerability? 3️⃣ When was the last time you softened into a moment of connection instead of reacting defensively? Practical Steps for Transformation 1️⃣ Acknowledge Your Feelings: Pause and ask, “What am I really feeling right now?” Beneath anger or frustration, there’s often fear, sadness, or insecurity. Naming these emotions is the first step to understanding them. 2️⃣ Express Without Blame: Use “I” statements to share your emotions. Instead of saying, “You never help,” try, “I feel overwhelmed with everything happening right now.” This approach invites connection rather than defensiveness. 3️⃣ Seek Softness: When you feel the urge to react defensively or with control, pause and listen. Replace reactivity with compassion—for yourself and your partner. 4️⃣ Create Space for Growth: Use tools like journaling, meditation, or self-assessment quizzes to explore your triggers and patterns. Understanding where these feelings come from can help you break free from them. Quick Visualization: Embracing Vulnerability 1️⃣ Close your eyes and imagine a soft light surrounding you, warm and comforting. 2️⃣ Picture a moment in your relationship where you felt powerless or reactive. Hold that memory gently, without judgment. 3️⃣ Imagine opening a door to your heart, letting your partner see your true feelings—the fear, the sadness, the need for connection. 4️⃣ Picture your partner responding with compassion, not defensiveness. Allow that warmth and understanding to fill the space between you. 5️⃣ Repeat silently: “I choose openness over control. Vulnerability strengthens my relationships.” More resources to help you build healthy relationships on our website and FREE app: www.TheAlchemyApp.com (link in bio) #vulnerability #HealthyRelationships #EmotionalConnection #RelationshipGrowth #SelfAwareness #EmotionalHealing #AlchemyConnect

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    5 m
  • Breaking Free from the Trap of Over-Giving and ‘Pick-Me’ Mentality
    Dec 30 2024

    Over-giving isn’t generosity—it’s exhaustion. If you’ve ever felt unseen or drained in your relationships, this video is for you. Learn to break free from the over-giving cycle, honor your needs, and create connections rooted in balance and respect. Watch now and explore tools for transformation in the description.

    Download Alchemy Connect, our free relationship app, take quizzes and self-assessments, or read our free relationship guide, Empowered Love, on our website: www.TheAlchemyApp.com

    1️⃣ Have you ever felt unseen or drained in a relationship because of over-giving?2️⃣ What steps can you take to shift from seeking validation to honoring your own needs?3️⃣ How might balanced giving transform your relationships?

    1️⃣ Recognize the PatternAsk yourself: Are you giving because it feels good, or because you feel you have to? Awareness is the first step toward transformation.

    2️⃣ Set Clear Boundaries by Developing Self-AwarenessWhen you become used to overgiving, you often lose track of what matters to you. You have to take time to yourself to reflect on your principles and get to know your body’s signals again. You may have to re-learn what feels good and doesn’t feel good to you. Remember, boundaries are not selfish — they are essential for healthy relationships. Start small by talking to your partner about your feelings on the matter. Boundaries invite respect and create space for your own needs.

    3️⃣ Give from AbundanceOnly give when it feels joyful and aligned with your values, not out of fear of rejection or obligation. This shifts the dynamic from depletion to fulfillment.

    4️⃣ Prioritize Self-CompassionTreat yourself with the same kindness and care you offer others. Remind yourself that your worth isn’t tied to how much you give.

    1️⃣ Take a Comfortable PositionSit or stand in a way that feels grounded and secure, even if you’re on the go.

    2️⃣ Visualize a ScaleImagine a golden scale in front of you, perfectly balanced. On one side, place your needs, and on the other, place the energy you give to others. Notice how the scale feels.

    3️⃣ Restore BalanceIf the scale tips too far toward giving, imagine gently adding energy to your side — your self-care, boundaries, and joy. Watch as the scale becomes even.

    4️⃣ Affirm Your WorthRepeat to yourself, “My worth is not tied to how much I give. I honor my needs and give from a place of abundance.”

    5️⃣ Carry This Balance ForwardAs you open your eyes, commit to carrying this sense of balance into your relationships.

    Download Alchemy Connect, our free relationship app, take quizzes and self-assessments, or read our free relationship guide, Empowered Love, on our website: www.TheAlchemyApp.com

    #Relationships #SelfLove #PersonalGrowth #ConsciousLiving #Mindfulness

    Reflection QuestionsPractical Steps to End the Cycle of OvergivingVisualization Practice: Reclaiming Your Inner Balance

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    6 m
  • How Safety Unlocks True Intimacy in Relationships
    Dec 29 2024

    Safety is the foundation of deep, meaningful connections. In this video, we explore how emotional safety transforms relationships, whether romantic, platonic, or professional. Learn to foster trust, embrace vulnerability, and create authentic, lasting bonds. Download our free relationship app, take quizzes and self-assessments, or follow our relationship guide, Empowered Love, on our website: www.TheAlchemyApp.com 🔑 Key Takeaways: 1️⃣ Understand what safety looks like in relationships. 2️⃣ Reflect on expectations and reduce pressure in your connections. 3️⃣ Build a foundation of trust and openness for true intimacy. What Does Safety Look Like in Relationships? 1️⃣ Acceptance Without Judgment: Let go of how you want others to behave and simply let them be. True safety emerges when people feel they don’t need to hide or alter who they are to fit someone else’s mold. 2️⃣ Permission to Feel: Give your partner space to express their desires—or lack of desire—without fear of rejection or resentment. This openness is the foundation of emotional security. 3️⃣ Openness Over Control: Instead of trying to “fix” or control your partner, create space for honest, unfiltered communication. Trust thrives in this environment, and connection deepens. Quick Visualization for Creating Safety in Relationships 1️⃣ Take a Breath: Pause and take a deep breath in through your nose and out through your mouth. Let your shoulders drop and your body relax. 2️⃣ Picture a Safe Space: Imagine a warm light surrounding you and someone you care about. This light represents acceptance and trust. 3️⃣ Focus on Openness: Picture the two of you sitting together with no expectations or judgments—just presence. 4️⃣ Feel the Connection: Visualize listening and being listened to, with both of you feeling completely safe and understood. 5️⃣ Anchor the Feeling: Take another deep breath and let the feeling of safety settle into your body. Carry it with you into your next conversation. Download our free relationship app, take quizzes and self-assessments, or follow our relationship guide, Empowered Love, on our website: www.TheAlchemyApp.com

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    5 m
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