Relationships are a central part of our lives, both in the short and long term. They can take on many different forms, including friendships, family relationships, acquaintanceships, and romantic partnerships.
Healthy, loving relationships provide us with benefits that we may not even realize. They can help to build our emotional, physical and spiritual health.
The benefits of being in a relationship are many and varied, but some are especially important to understand. These benefits include:
A sense of purpose
People in relationships feel they are making a difference or helping others in some way. This can increase a person’s self-worth, and give them the motivation they need to keep moving forward in their lives.
Having a strong support system
In a healthy relationship, significant others trust one another. They may not always agree on everything, but they will do their best to make sure that their partner is happy and healthy. This can mean staying in contact with family or friends, ensuring they are eating well and getting enough sleep.
Communicating and Listening
Healthy relationships talk to each other regularly about their feelings, thoughts and concerns. This can help to avoid misunderstandings and arguments. It is also essential that both partners check in to see if they have understood each other correctly.
Understanding each other
Some relationships are hard to understand, but it is important to remember that you are two different people with different values and beliefs. You can’t change your partner’s past or present, but you can work together to figure out what your shared goals are and try to meet those goals.
Then, don’t forget that you also have your own needs and concerns. This can be frustrating, but it is critical to figure out what you can accept and when you need to separate or cut your ties with someone.
Your partner’s generosity, humor, resilience, flexibility, boundaries and self-care are some of the most uplifting aspects of having a healthy relationship. They can encourage you to do your best, and they are often a good source of support when things are difficult.
Being in a healthy relationship can also help you to develop healthier lifestyle habits, like eating well, exercising, and not smoking. It is a lot easier to stick to these habits when you have a supportive network of people around you.
Intimacy
Being physically close with a loved one is essential to a healthy relationship. This might include kissing, hugging, cuddling, or sleeping together. It is also important to share the same interests and hobbies, whether that is sports, music, cooking or reading.
A healthy relationship will encourage you to be your true self and will support you in your lifelong journey of growth and development. Having a supportive partner will allow you to explore new experiences and adventures.
Intimacy can also include sex, but not every relationship has to have this aspect of it. As long as both partners are on the same page about sex, it can be a beneficial part of the relationship.