How is the health of your relationships? Healthy relationships with others, whether friends, coworkers or a romantic partner, are important pillars in our lives. Our support systems see us through health challenges or trials like job loss, break ups and even larger global issues.
Life wasn’t designed to be lived alone. We learn how to relate to one another in childhood through socializing (and messing up and repairing) with other kids and through our connections and attachments with our caretakers. But we can improve our relationship skills at any age.
Having a variety of relationships may help reduce stress or risk levels for heart-related health conditions. Strong social ties are connected to a longer lifespan, whereas loneliness and social isolation are linked to poorer health, depression and a risk of early death. But what does a healthy relationship look like?
Healthy friendships, family connections and romantic partnerships make us feel safe, valued and have high levels of trust. When we’re in a healthy relationship, we feel good about ourselves when we’re together. As you work toward feeling whole, here are some tips for increasing your sense of belonging by building healthy relationships:Share your feelings honestly Ask for what you need Practice empathetic listening; approach loved ones without judgment or blame Disagree respectfully; conflicts should not turn into personal attacks Avoid critical angry outbursts; violence is off-limits Establish healthy boundaries by expecting others to treat you with respect and honesty Compromise when appropriate; come to agreements that work for everyone Set boundaries; it’s OK to say no As you pursue wholeness in your relationships and health, share ideas with your Wholeness Coach about how you can increase your sense of belonging through your relationships.
Sources: NIH, Psychology Today