Whether you are in one or many, positive relationships provide us with support and add meaning to our lives. It is also proven that they make life more enjoyable and can contribute to a longer lifespan.
A relationship can take on many forms, from friendship to intimate love. Regardless of the form, healthy relationships are characterized by trust, mutual respect and honesty. They are also based on good communication and allow for individuals to express themselves freely without fear of retaliation. Additionally, they are based on reciprocity and allow each person to maintain their independence while supporting the other’s interests and needs.
Intimate relationships are those that include emotional or physical closeness, sexual intimacy and feelings of romance and affection. They often have a powerful influence over a person’s mood, self-esteem and sense of well-being. Intimate relationships can be complex and are constantly evolving as the individuals in them grow and change over time. Despite this, some couples find themselves in long-term commitments that do not lead to feelings of intimacy and satisfaction.
While everyone may not crave a romantic connection, having healthy social ties is a crucial part of being human. Being in a relationship provides many benefits such as lower stress levels, restful sleep, better mental health and robust physical health. This is especially important as a study showed that people who are socially isolated are more likely to have higher rates of depression and anxiety. As a result, it is important to nurture the relationships you have and keep them close.