TRUST is a central aspect of human relationships and it carries one universal meaning-- to rely on someone or something’s strength, truth, or ability. It is an assured reliance, a safe space, and it requires exposing one’s vulnerabilities.When trust is broken, the essence of the relationship is shaken, and the ensuing grief of that can lead to a downward spiral of negativity, anger,sadness, hurt feelings, and a strong sense of betrayal.

Dealing with betrayal is very difficult because it triggers an avalanche of emotions for those involved. If you cheated, chances are you’re wracked with guilt and confusion, yet yearning for your spouse’s forgiveness and love. If you were betrayed, chances are you’re struggling with feeling insecure, unloved, and unwanted. You’re probably also wondering if you can ever truly trust your spouse again.

Whichever side of infidelity you’re on, your emotions are running wild because you and your relationship are facing a huge challenge –and you will probably not know how to move forward.

This is one of the most painful and confusing situations that you’ll ever face. In fact, sometimes the pain is so great that you can feel isolated and lost in it. You may become angry and lash out, and your partner becomes the bearer of all these “emotional hits.” The ability to manage these “emotional hits” effectively is one of the paths to be taken on the road to forgiveness.

Forgiveness is not a destination. It is a journey. It does not mean forgetting or giving a free pass. If you’ve experienced infidelity,know that the journey is a harrowing one -- with highs and lows. To forgive,you must begin to heal both individually and as a couple.

Here are 3 tips to begin the healing process INDIVIDUALLY:

1.     Remind yourself that it’s OK to not know what to feel or what to do

2.     Allow yourself the time to ask questions

3.     Ask for a sincere & heartfelt apology

Here are 3 tips to begin the healing process AS A COUPLE:

1.    Allow the initial emotions to settle before making decisions

2.    Transparency becomes the name of the game for both

3.    Both acknowledge and focus on the repair work that needs to be done

Navigating and surviving the choppy waters of infidelity is possible. It can serve as an awakening, a revival of the relationship.It will be an active process of co-creation, where the couple actively participates in rebuilding the trust that was lost. Even couples who overcome the betrayal will still acknowledge the affair as a game-changer. You may forgive but you won't forget, and that may be a good thing! It's a reminder to both of you that your relationship is precious and that seeking a new path,individually AND together can be worthwhile.