Health and energy have a far-reaching link with our behaviour, influencing how we interact with others. When we are energetic, our interactions are more positive and engaging. On the other hand, low energy levels can lead to irritability and withdrawn behaviour. From the energy we bring to our interactions; along with our capacity for empathy and understanding; health is the silent partner in every successful relationship. Did you know that individuals who engage in regular physical activity are 30% more likely to report high levels of happiness in their relationships? Therefore, taking good care of our physical, mental, and emotional health can definitely improve the quality of our interactions with those around us.
How health impacts relationships
Personal health is holistic in the sense that our physical, mental, and emotional health are interconnected. For example, physical exercise can improve mental health by reducing anxiety and depression, while mental calmness can influence physical health by impacting sleep and stress levels. Emotional health, in turn, is supported by both physical and mental health, creating a cycle that supports our wellness and enhances relationships.
Physical Health
Good physical health keeps an individual energetic, making them less likely to become exhausted at work.
Physical health can affect one’s appearance and self-esteem, which in turn influences confidence in social interactions.
Good physical health contributes to higher productivity and better job performance.
Healthy individuals are less likely to miss work, making them more reliable colleagues and employees.
Mental Health
Mental well-being enhances empathy and understanding, essential components of deep and meaningful relationships.
Persons with good mental health are better equipped to resolve conflicts amicably, maintaining harmony in relationships.
Better mental health enables better stress management, crucial for maintaining professional composure and positive interactions.
Mental well-being supports better brain function, enhancing problem-solving abilities and creativity in the workplace.
Emotional Health
Emotional health promotes open and honest communication, essential for any close relationship.
Emotionally healthy persons are more resilient, better able to cope with relationship ups and downs.
Emotional health is important for effective leadership and the ability to positively influence colleagues.
Emotionally stable persons contribute to a supportive workplace atmosphere and enhance overall team spirit and collaboration.
Yoga to the rescue
Maintaining relationships requires continuous effort, understanding, and self-improvement. Yoga's psychological benefits include calming the mind, enhancing concentration and mental clarity. The Yoga Sutras of Maharshi Patanjali emphasise our conduct with others, particularly through the practice of the Yamas, which are ethical restraints.
Ahimsa: In relationships, harm often arises from unspoken expectations and attempts to change others. Ahimsa urges us to stop causing harm to those we love, whether through demands, expectations, or trying to change them. True selflessness involves self-care, recognizing that neglecting one’s well-being is not virtuous.
Purity: Yogic philosophy stresses the importance of purity and honesty in relationships. Deception introduces impurities, while truth without compassion is harsh. Practicing truth in thought and Ahimsa in speech and action is essential.
Non-Attachment: Non-attachment actually signifies mutual respect rather than possessiveness. Attachment and possessiveness are forms of bondage, while non-attachment brings freedom and respect in relationships.
Practicing yoga creates deeper, more meaningful relationships because it helps us to build stronger, healthier connections with others.
Tips to maintain relationships
Take part in physical activities together, like dancing or hiking, to boost motivation and bond with each other.
Involve family or friends in meal preparation. This not only ensures healthier eating but also strengthens relationships through shared activities.
Aim to have at least five different colours of fruits and vegetables on your plate each day to ensure a variety of nutrients and make meals more appealing.
As a family, go to bed and wake up at the same time every day, even on weekends, to regulate your internal clock.
Schedule regular calls or meet-ups with friends and family, even if it's just a quick chat, to maintain connections and support.
Allocate specific time blocks for work, personal activities, and family time to ensure a balanced schedule and avoid work spilling over into personal time.
Establish certain areas in your home as tech-free zones, like your dining area, to encourage more face-to-face interactions and reduce screen time.
Remember, relationships demand continuous effort and understanding and the willingness to face struggles and trials together. Implementing these suggestions can help enhance your physical and mental well-being while also making your relationships more meaningful.
