The Benefits of Positive Relationships Good for Mind and Health
The political climate in America is more divisive than ever. The two major parties constantly blame each other for the problems our country faces, and families are finding themselves split on where they stand. We have the right to decide our positions on a number of hot-topic issues, but no matter how hard you may try to avoid it, the dreaded political conversation may still sneak in. Here are four tips to keep family political discussions friendly and healthy. Avoid Trigger Words and Topics Families can discuss many things during a holiday dinner that have nothing to do with politics. Talking about school, careers, and vacations is a great way to try to avoid politics. If you’re trying to stay away from political discussions, avoid bringing up anything about current or past presidents, vaccines, or any other politically charged topic. If you avoid talking about politics outright, you won’t have to worry about navigating them. Create Ground Rules If your family is notorious for heated political arguments over holiday meals, it can help to create some personal ground rules so things do not get carried away. If you come in knowing you have different political views from someone else, be ready to simply agree to disagree from the get-go. If anything, it may help keep things civil. Find a place to draw the line, and if the conversation heads in that direction, simply walk away. Value Everyone’s Viewpoints Not everyone has lived the same experiences you have. While you might think their viewpoints don’t make sense, they have lived through experiences that justify them in their own mind. Just accept this. If you expect to change everyone’s stance During the Holiday Season 4 Tips to Navigate Family Politics
Connecting with other humans in a positive way is one of the most profound experiences we have. That positivity is one of the greatest virtues — it’s contagious, and engaging in
happy relationships with others is extremely important not only for our minds but also for our health.
Longer Lives Studies have actually shown that when people are involved in positive relationships, they live longer. This is likely attributed to decreased stress, as stress can exact a toll on the entire body. Positive relationships can also encourage us to
give up negative habits such as drinking or smoking, which cause many health problems and concerns. Healthy habits can help people live longer lives. Quicker Healing Positive people in our lives can distract us from pain, remind us to take medication, be our advocates, and simply reduce stress. And less stress means healing takes place faster. Those who have a support person feel more confident and prepared to undergo surgeries and fight illnesses as well. Boosted Immune Systems It makes sense — people who have less stress have stronger immune systems. During times of high stress, our bodies are more susceptible to illnesses because our immune system’s ability to fight off antigens is reduced. The stress hormone corticosteroid can also lower the number of lymphocytes available to fight infection. However, when we are in a happy and loving relationship, our bodies produce oxytocin, and we are less likely to get sick. Better Physical Shape Being in a positive relationship, especially a romantic one, can provide the motivation to be the best version of ourselves. This includes our physical condition, too! Having a friend or workout partner to encourage accountability and even push us out of our comfort zone a bit at the gym can keep us motivated. Being in a positive, healthy, and happy relationship means we listen to each other, offer advice, openly communicate without judgment, practice respect and trust, and engage in healthy activities together. So, it’s no surprise that positive relationships work wonders for our health and happiness.
on major issues, you will walk away disappointed. Value what they are saying and try to see it through their eyes.
Avoid Alcohol Intake While you might want to hide near a bottle to avoid these conversations, try to avoid drinking what’s in it. Alcohol is more likely to increase emotions and can push a civil conversation over the edge, turning things ugly quickly. If you know your family will discuss politics, avoid drinking alcohol.
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