Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, the Duke, and Duchess of Sussex, have integrated a unique family dynamic into their relationship by involving Meghan’s mother, Doria Ragland, as an informal ‘in-house marriage counsellor.’ This arrangement was highlighted in a detailed report by a source to The Sun, shedding light on the couple’s reliance on Doria for guidance and support.
Doria, who has recently taken up residence in the guesthouse of the couple’s expansive Montecito property, plays a pivotal role in their lives. Her presence has become particularly significant when the couple faces challenges in their relationship. According to the source, Harry affectionately refers to Doria as their ‘in-house guru,’ a testament to the critical role she plays in their marital life. Whenever Harry and Meghan encounter decision-making hurdles or disagreements, Doria is reportedly the first person they consult for advice.
“If he’s had a disagreement with Meghan, instead of wading in head-on, he’ll ask Doria for her take on it first.”
The source emphasized that Doria’s role in Harry’s life transcends that of a typical mother-in-law. As a yoga instructor with a calm demeanor, she offers a perspective that Harry greatly values, especially when he is navigating disagreements or seeking counsel. If there’s a disagreement between Harry and Meghan, he often turns to Doria first for her viewpoint before proceeding further.
The move of Doria into the Sussexes’ guesthouse, as noted by the Daily Express, marks a significant change in the family’s living arrangements. It came at a time when Meghan’s relationship with her father, Thomas Markle, and her siblings remains estranged. Since marrying Harry nearly six years ago, her interactions with her paternal family have been notably limited.
Furthermore, the presence of Doria in the Sussex household is of considerable importance given the limited interaction that Meghan and Harry have with other extended family members. Since stepping back from their royal duties in 2020, their relationships with the British royal family have been strained. This backdrop makes the support system provided by Doria all the more crucial for the couple and their two children, Prince Archie, 4, and Princess Lilibet, 2.
Meghan’s relationship with her mother has always been a cornerstone of her life, and now, as they navigate the complexities of their post-royal life, Doria’s role has evolved to become an integral part of the family’s daily dynamics, offering guidance and support in their personal and marital journey.
