"My mother-in-law doesn't give me and my husband any space!"

Query: My mother-in-law tagged along with us on our trip when it was supposed to be only me and my husband. We hardly get any time together at home and so, this trip was supposed to be very special for us. My husband can't say no to his mother and I am really frustrated. What can I do to make her understand that we need our space?
Response by Shivani Misri Sadhoo: You may have heard that there is an old saying, if you marry someone, you marry their family too.Specifically, this context in Indian concept of marriage fits the bill. Your getting married in a close knitted family has its own share of advantages, but sometimes your in-laws might overstep the limitations. And when it becomes constant, you often wonder how to convey things to them, correctly and also it did hurt your mother in-laws sentiments. Here, are a few things I would like to suggest you to try and see if you are able see any positive changes later on.
• Initially you need to talks with your partner about the boundaries you need.
• You need to initiate the conversation with positivity.
• Be certain about your mother in-law’s behaviors, that you are not comfortable with.
• Convey your expectations to her.
• End using an affirming statement, while you have any conversation with your mother in-law.
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Shivani Misri Sadhoo, Psychologist and Relationship Expert, Founder Director Saarthi Counselling Services