A relationship is a close personal connection that may include emotional intimacy, physical affection or sexual activity. A relationship may be monogamous, polyamorous, casual, serious, committed or open.
Relationships are a source of happiness, support and stability. They provide people with a partner to share joy and sorrow, celebrate achievements and milestones with and to lean on in difficult times. They also provide a social and emotional boost, and are known to improve overall health.
Research has shown that having healthy romantic relationships can add years to your life. This may be because the ‘happiness hormones’ that are released in your brain are much greater when you are in love, than when you are not. This is why it is so important to find the right person for you, and to nurture your relationship so it stays happy and healthy.
In a good relationship, both partners communicate openly and honestly with each other. They make time to spend together, and they also enjoy their own interests outside the relationship, like their hobbies, friends and family. They are respectful of each other’s independence and do not try to control or manipulate one another.
A balanced relationship means that both people give and take in equal amounts, and that they feel valued, respected and loved by their significant other. This can be achieved by having healthy communication, respecting boundaries and avoiding negative behaviors that can damage a relationship. This can be done by talking about your expectations and goals for the relationship, listening to your significant other and checking that you understand each other correctly.