What Makes a Healthy Relationships in Practice?
What does a healthy relationship look like? Well, there is no universal answer to this question. Healthy relationships differ from one person to another as different people require different needs to be catered to. Some of the needs linger around: Sex, communication, space, values, affection, and hobbies. The common ground among relationships is adaptability. Some of the key points in relationships are:
Trust
Integrity and honesty are the basis of trust. This means being open with your partner and not worrying about what they tell you and goes beyond the mere words that were said. It also goes by feeling secure that will not intentionally hurt you emotionally or physically and encourage you to make decisions by yourself.
Open Communication
Partners in relationships communicate openly about the things that affect them. This would include the wins and losses and everything in the middle. Communication is a two-way street. It takes both parties to voice out their issues. Despite voicing out different opinions, it is important to listen without judgement.
Space
Space is referred to here as allowing your partner to have their alone time as an entity. Sound relationships are most of the times described as interdependent from one another. This does not necessarily mean that each party does not convey mutual support. As much as they are your partner, you do not solely rely on them to get your needs met. You will still have other friendly connections that will also require time to cultivate them as well as going after your dreams and interests.
Time Apart
Distance brings some sort of strength in adversity. What this means is that when you spend time apart, it is more likely you will long for the moment you get a hold of your partner. As much as spending time is critical in a relationship for it to work, time apart is also necessary to cater to commitments like work, family, pursuing a hobby, friends, and personal needs.
Curiosity
A significant aspect of relationships is curiosity. This refers to the general interest in the goals, dreams, and aspirations of your partner. Curiosity also refers to the opened and the consideration of the relationship structure changing with time as both of you evolve. You would love to see them morph into being the best versions of themselves. The thought of who they used to be or who you think they should be is out of the question.
Being Playful
Nothing lightens up the moment as much as having a playful partner. This is important to set the mood for each other. Sometimes challenges are thrown at you by life and being playful should be an excellent way to unwind and relieve the pent-up tension. Being playful also encourages each partner to be their authentic selves at the moment.
Intimacy
Most of the times, intimacy is commonly referred to with sex but not all the time. A healthy relationship can stand the test of time without sex so long as it is a mutual agreement between both parties. Some forms of physical intimacy include handholding, cuddling, kissing, hugging as well as using adult toys in the bedroom. Whatever the form of intimacy, it is important to cultivate that bond between the partners.
Intimacy also involves respecting each other’s relationships. This includes discussing the sexual risks, sharing knowledge with partners, and not pressuring partners to do sexual acts.
Teamwork
It takes two to form a relationship; this basically means showing support for your partner despite the challenges encountered or not sharing similar goals.
These are some of the above means that can be used to practice healthy relationships. Whether you’re in a relationship rut, or wanting some practical ways to create even more connection, these healthy relationship practices are a great place to start.
