Relationships are an essential part of our social support network. They help to keep us mentally and physically healthy. They also offer a space to learn and develop. Different types of relationships are important in our lives, some of them are close and intimate while others are more distant and challenging.

One of the primary reasons for having a relationship is to feel like you belong and are a part of something bigger. This sense of belonging is known as a need to belong, which is an evolved biological behaviour that improves chances of survival and procreation. The need to belong is why we start and maintain relationships with people who make us feel happy, supported, and loved.

When you are committed to someone, you want them to prioritize your needs and wants. In a healthy, mature relationship, this is generally what happens. However, your partner may have other relationships in their life that need to come first from time to time. For example, they might have friends or family who need their attention or have gone through a major crisis. It is okay for them to take a break from you when they have to attend to these other priorities, but if this becomes the norm and it happens all the time then the relationship is probably unhealthy.

Intimacy in a relationship is the ability to be emotionally intimate with your partner. This is often achieved through spending quality time together, being honest, and working on communication skills. It’s a lot of work to build intimacy, but it is well worth the effort. The more you invest in your relationship, the closer you will become.

The emotional bonding that occurs in a loving, committed relationship is beneficial to your mental and physical health. This is because it boosts the body’s levels of oxytocin, which is a hormone that influences bonding and attachment. In addition, studies have shown that regular, affectionate touch, such as holding hands, kissing, and hugging, is also good for us.

A positive aspect of being in a relationship is that it helps you to grow as a person and become a more balanced individual. You may discover parts of yourself that are hidden or buried in your relationship and be encouraged by your partner to bring them out into the open. For example, if you are more extroverted than your partner, they might encourage you to spend time with other people.

Having a partner can also help you stick to your goals and dreams and stay motivated. They can help hold you accountable and encourage you when you’re struggling. It’s important for both partners to have a life outside of the relationship, but they should also share common interests. They should be able to trust that their significant other will not gossip or act jealously around their friends and family, and they should respect each other’s independence. In addition, they should not be afraid to disagree and have a conversation about their feelings.