Why Relationships Matter
When it comes to long term health, there is one area that plays a role in ways that are equally or perhaps more influential than good nutrition, proper sleep and exercise – and that’s Relationship.
Simply put, the quality of our relationships really matter. There is an abundance of research that shows how our social connections have significant impact on both biological and behavioral outcomes.
For example, they’ve found that healthy relationships are potent protection from harmful levels of stress, which can adversely affect heart health, gut function, insulin regulation, and the immune system. One study found that midlife women who were in highly satisfying marriages and marital-type relationships had a lower risk for cardiovascular disease compared with those in less satisfying marriages.
At the same time, relationships are a powerful vehicle for personal growth and spiritual evolution. Satisfying and joy filled or painful and bitter, our relationships are always illuminating, shining the light of conscious awareness, constantly inviting us to look inward and get to know ourselves better.
It’s those Intimate connections that trigger us that are especially critical for any unhealed inner child issues or integrating our shadow.
Relationships are at the center of life’s classroom. For me personally, the biggest lessons have to do with healthy boundaries and self care, and how to love ourselves unconditionally.
Such experiences unveil deep truths that strengthen our resolve to live with the knowing that our ability to feel whole, enough and complete always lies within ourselves.
Relationships are powerful mirrors held up real close for us to witness and bring healing to our deep inner wounding.
Even the relationships that fail, we can eventually see not as a mistake to regret, but as a treasure trove of important life lessons.
For more on the power of relationships, consciousness and healing check out this week’s podcast episode: ” Healing Our Relationships with Tantra Yoga.
