Relationships are important parts of everyone’s lives. They help us feel secure and supported, and they can have a positive impact on our health.
A good relationship can decrease your stress levels, improve your mood and help you live longer! Research shows that people with good relationships have more social support and lower levels of depression.
The benefits of healthy relationships extend far beyond romantic love. Having a strong network of supportive friends and family can also boost your immunity and make you more resilient to illness.
Creating a foundation of intimacy requires work, but it’s worth it. Frequent, affectionate touch–holding hands, hugging, kissing–boosts your body’s levels of oxytocin, the hormone that influences bonding and attachment.
Spending quality time together is also key to a lasting relationship, even amid busy work schedules and children. Find ways to make it special, such as making dinner dates or planning day trips that you both enjoy.
Listening to your partner is also critical in a healthy relationship. Whether you’re communicating in person or over the phone, take the time to hear what they have to say and understand their perspective.
Be dependable: You need to be able to count on your partner when they have plans with you, so make sure that you keep up with those obligations. Be honest and straightforward, and don’t be afraid to say how you feel if something is bothering you about your partner.
Respect your partner: This can be hard, but it’s crucial for a lasting relationship. Treat them with courtesy and dignity, and don’t let your feelings for them influence how you treat them in other areas of your life.
