Have you ever been in a relationship that felt like a roller coaster? One where your emotions are all over the place, evoking passion, intensity, and confusion at the same time? That’s the sign of a vortex relationship.

The name makes it sound a bit like a sci-fi romance, where the love interests must travel through space to meet each other. But that’s obviously not the case.

So, what is a vortex relationship, exactly? Buckle up; there’s a lot to cover. 

The Vortex Relationship: Overview

A vortex relationship isn’t your typical connection; it’s more of a magnetic pull between two people with similar vibes/energies.

Jerry and Esther Hicks first introduced this term in 2009, and it has become a popular topic in the relationship sphere ever since. 

You’re probably wondering: “What do vortexes have to do with personal connections?”

Think of this type of relationship as a captivating whirlpool of emotions. It’s not a straightforward journey; it encompasses the exhilarating highs and the challenging lows. 

The word “vortex” reflects the intensity and transformative nature of this connection.

What Are the Characteristics of a Vortex Relationship?

There are a few characteristics you can look for to identify Esther Hicks’ vortex relationship. Some of them are typical of a classic relationship. Some are specific to this connection.

1. Dynamic Energy

In the world of vortex relationships, dynamic energy takes center stage. Both partners put in the effort to create a continuous flow of shared enthusiasm, passion, and vibrancy.

This dynamic energy sets the tone for a relationship that thrives on continuous growth and the joy of shared experiences.

2. Mutual Understanding

Nothing beats the profound level of understanding that defines every interaction in a vortex relationship. It’s like having a shared language—a secret method of communication that goes beyond words.

By creating a safe space, partners intuitively understand each other’s thoughts, desires, and unspoken nuances. 

3. Emotional Support

A vortex relationship without emotional support is like riding a roller coaster without a safety harness. It’s too overwhelming. 

Emotional support isn’t just about celebrating successes together but also facing your deepest hurts hand-in-hand.

It creates an environment where both individuals feel safe, understood, and capable of navigating life’s challenges as a team.

4. Shared Growth

Vortex relationships prompt collective and individual growth. Each partner becomes a catalyst for the other’s personal development, creating an environment where both become the best versions of themselves.

The shared journey becomes a transformative force, fostering continuous evolution and a deep connection.

5. Aligned Values

Shared values become the cornerstone of your connection. Whether it’s life goals, moral beliefs, or future aspirations, there’s a profound alignment that strengthens your bond.

6. Emotional Resonance

Your emotions synchronize effortlessly. Whether it’s joy, sorrow, or excitement, there’s an emotional resonance between you and your partner, creating a harmonious connection.

What Are the Challenges of Vortex Relationships?

A relationship vortex isn’t just about love and growth. It comes with a unique set of challenges that take a lot of effort to overcome. 

1. Managing Overwhelming Emotions

Yes, the intense emotions that make these connections unique can be a double-edged sword, leading to emotional highs that are too hard to manage.

Facing these emotional surges requires a mutual commitment to understanding and supporting each other.

2. Struggling with Loose Boundaries

A common challenge in vortex relationships is maintaining a clear and defined set of boundaries. The magnetic pull between partners can sometimes blur the lines between personal spaces, leading to a loose sense of boundaries.

A healthy vortex relationship involves preserving each other’s autonomy while cherishing the shared connection. Addressing this issue involves open communication, mutual respect, and an understanding of each other’s personalities. 

3. Coping with Unrealistic Expectations

Individuals in vortex relationships may struggle with the weight of unrealistic expectations. The intense nature of their connection prompts them to have unrealistic expectations of their partners that reality struggles to meet.

That’s why both individuals should have a shared understanding of each other’s imperfections. It creates realistic expectations that allow the relationship to grow organically.

4. Riding Unstable Emotional Waves

Emotional instability is a nuanced challenge in vortex relationships. The constant switch between high and low moments creates an unpredictable emotional landscape.

A young couple having a heated argument on a couch

Fighting this instability takes emotional intelligence. You need to build a supportive environment where both partners can express their emotions with mutual understanding.

5. Struggling with Codependency

As you can see, the connection between both individuals in a vortex relationship is quite strong. Sometimes, it can be too strong that it prompts you to lose your sense of identity, hindering individual growth.

Of course, that’s not the case for everyone, but it’s an easy trap to fall for.

Addressing this challenge requires cultivating individual identities and encouraging personal growth. Most importantly, both parties need to have an independent life outside the relationship.

How to Maintain a Vortex Relationship

Maintaining a vortex relationship isn’t different from maintaining a regular one. That said, here are a few pointers to avoid future relationship issues.

Regular Communication

Regular communication is the bread and butter of vortex relationships. It’s not just about communicating in times of emotional turbulence. It’s an ongoing exchange of thoughts, feelings, and experiences.

It’s like a continuous conversation, ensuring both individuals understand each other and adapt to the changes that happen in the relationship.

A Safe Space

Characterized by a whirlwind of emotional turbulence, creating a safe space in a vortex relationship is non-negotiable. It allows you to be vulnerable without fear of judgment, making it easier for you to strengthen your connection with your partner.

Otherwise, you’d be navigating a storm without shelter. Not only will you lose your way, but you won’t be able to escape without consequences.

A safe space would be your compass. It helps you explore the relationship properly, navigating the challenges and nurturing emotional intimacy.

A Positive Mindset

You can’t build a healthy vortex relationship with a negative mindset. The ability to approach challenges with optimism and view setbacks as opportunities for growth contributes to the vibrancy of the connection.

Infusing positivity on a regular basis builds a supportive environment, fueling the relationship with resilience and joy.

OTHER Types of Vortex Relationships

This heading might sound confusing. “Wait! There’s more than one type of vortex relationship?”

You probably thought a vortex relationship is exclusive to romance, but Esther Hicks’s model applies to different types of relationships. Let’s see a few examples.

Vortex Familial Relationships

It’s only natural to start with familial ties, as they can incorporate all the elements of a vortex relationship. Whether it’s parents, siblings, or cousins, you can build a deep emotional connection with family members.

These relationships thrive on regular communication, dynamic energy, emotional support, and an enhanced appreciation of each member.

Vortex Friendships

Friendships are often underestimated. Some believe it’s just a group of people who share similar values and enjoy each other’s company. That definition merely scratches the surface, though.

Some friendships have the intensity, emotional connection, and mutual understanding of a romantic relationship. Friends uplift each other, create a safe space to share negative emotions with each other, and face their problems with a positive mindset.

Sounds familiar? These are all aspects of Esther Hicks’s definition of a vortex relationship!

Vortex Mentorships

Yes, a vortex relationship can manifest even between a mentor and a mentee. After all, a mentor’s role surpasses mere guidance.

It involves creating a safe space for growth, fostering a positive mindset, and enhancing mutual understanding.

Vortex Relationships vs. Toxic Relationships

Some can view the emotional instability of vortex relationships as unhealthy, almost leaning toward toxicity.

First, Esther Hicks would be offended. Second, while it might seem this way at first glance, the instability of both relationships is fundamentally different. 

Here’s how:

  • Vortex Relationships: Yes, they’re roller coasters. However, partners in a vortex relationship usually adapt to these emotional fluctuations, using them as opportunities for collective and personal growth.
  • Toxic Relationships: The emotional instability here is often fueled by negativity and manipulation. Instead of growth, toxic relationships prompt conflict and emotional harm.

ADDITIONAL Resources ON Vortex Relationships

You’re pretty much an expert in vortex relationships now. However, if you want to take a deeper dive, you can always visit your local bookstore.

In 2009, Abraham-Hicks Publications introduced “The Vortex: Where the Law of Attraction Assembles All Cooperative Relationships.” The title is a mouthful, but it’s the definitive book for anyone curious to explore these impossible relationships.

Jerry and Esther Hicks debunk common false premises in the world of relationships and help you understand every connection you’ve ever built.

You can also buy Getting Into the Vortex Cards. Just note that these relationship cards explore Esther’s general teachings rather than vortex relationships specifically. 

Sure, some of her principles align with the nature of vortex relationships, but you won’t get as much value as with the book.