Love Tips for Healthy Relationships
Jan 31, 2015 02:32PM ● By By Kathy Cooper
February is nationally recognized as Relationship Wellness Month, and has long been considered the “love” month, spotlighting relationships and relationship building. In fact, in the U.S., more couples get married each year on Valentine’s Day, February 14, than on any other calendar date. Yes, love is “in the air,” and it is a very BIG deal.
Contrary to popular belief, successful relationships do not just magically “happen.” They are the culminating “fruits” of hard work, dedication and unselfish, intentional acts of caring and applied principles between two individuals. There are many helpful resources available to couples looking for practical tools and tips to enhance and improve relationships, with a few tips widely considered to be some of the most effective, provided below.
Read on … .
Be the best “self” to give the best “self.” Eat healthy and nourishing whole foods. Stay away from processed foods, incorporate exercise and live a balanced life. Spend quality time with friends, and do things that feed the soul.
Who doesn’t appreciate surprises and small acts of love? Make that loved one feel special. This is not just about bringing home flowers, but also includes the numerous small opportunities to show appreciation and love that make a huge difference. Examples include making coffee in the morning; preparing a dinner favorite on an otherwise insignificant day; or writing a special note, or message, just to say, “I love you.”
Set aside one night a week, or one night a month, just for that special someone. No children are allowed here. Individuals should take turns in choosing the activities. Scheduling movie nights or candlelit dinners at home after the kids have been put to bed are great relationship builders. The ultimate goal is to spend quality, adult time together to keep the relationship healthy.
Do fun things and forget about the worries of the world. Go to the park together, try a new sport, ride bikes or jump on a trampoline. Practice laughter, which has been proven to release endorphins. Act like kids again.
Relationships are not perfect. There will be disagreements from time to time. Remember to fight fairly and be respectful. Discuss current issues with a positive resolution in mind. Do not drag up old issues that create new wounds. Listen with an open mind, and do not presume to know how and what your loved one is feeling. Pick your battles carefully, and realize that not everything is worth fighting over. The goal should be to build bridges of unity, not walls of isolation.
Most individuals are looking for relationships, but more important, healthy and meaningful ones. Humans are “wired” for connection; and with the right application of love’s “best practices,” Valentine’s Day can become a day never to forget!
