How can actively listening and responding with empathy help to strengthen bonds and cultivate a sense of emotional intimacy in relationships?

Actively listening and responding with empathy shows that you care about the other person's feelings and experiences, which can help build trust and deepen emotional connections. By truly understanding and validating the other person's emotions, you create a safe and supportive environment for open communication and vulnerability. This can lead to increased understanding, mutual respect, and a stronger emotional bond between individuals in the relationship.