As we move forward into 2025, I find myself reflecting on the relationships we build with others and, most importantly, with ourselves. Our connections, whether romantic, platonic, or personal, shape our well-being in profound ways. However, the path to healthy relationships requires intentional effort, self-awareness, and a commitment to growth.
Inspired by my favourite poet, Yung Pueblo, I’d like to share ten principles that have guided me through challenging times and helped me foster healthier relationships. These principles are also supported by research in psychology, health sciences, and well-being studies.
1. Set Boundaries to Reduce Stress
Boundaries protect our mental and emotional health, promoting healthy interpersonal relationships. Studies have shown that clear boundaries reduce stress, prevent burnout, and improve emotional resilience (Smith & Brunner, 2017).
2. Embrace Gratitude Daily
Gratitude enhances well-being by fostering a positive outlook and improving relationships. Research demonstrates that practicing gratitude daily can increase happiness, reduce depressive symptoms, and strengthen bonds with others (Emmons & McCullough, 2003).
3. Let Go of Attachments
Letting go of unhealthy attachments allows room for personal growth and healthier relationships. According to Bowlby’s attachment theory, secure attachment fosters healthy relationships, while insecure attachments can lead to maladaptive patterns (Mikulincer & Shaver, 2016).
4. Focus on Your Growth
Personal growth correlates with life satisfaction and relationship quality. Self-determination theory emphasizes the importance of autonomy, competence, and relatedness in fostering personal and relational well-being (Ryan & Deci, 2017).
5. Foster High-Quality Friendships
High-quality friendships contribute to mental health and life satisfaction. Longitudinal studies reveal that supportive friendships reduce stress and increase happiness, particularly during life transitions (Demir & Özdemir, 2010).
6. Cultivate Resilient Inner Peace
Inner peace is essential for emotional stability and resilience. Mindfulness-based interventions have been proven to reduce stress, improve emotional regulation, and enhance overall well-being (Kabat-Zinn, 2003).
7. Adopt Nourishing Habits
Healthy habits such as journaling, good sleep hygiene, and self-care practices enhance emotional regulation and stress management. Research links these habits to improved mental health outcomes (Walker et al., 2020).
8. Take Relaxing Walks
Walking improves physical and mental health by reducing stress and promoting clarity of thought. A study by Marselle et al. (2019) found that nature-based walking groups improve mood, reduce anxiety, and enhance social connectedness.
9. Eat Right
A balanced diet is crucial for mental health and emotional stability. Nutritional psychiatry highlights the impact of diet on mental well-being, showing that nutrient-rich foods reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety (Jacka et al., 2014).
10. Exercise Regularly
Exercise is a powerful tool for enhancing mood and reducing stress. Regular physical activity has been shown to increase endorphin levels, improve sleep quality, and boost self-esteem (Ratey & Loehr, 2011).
Final Thoughts
Healthy relationships require work, not just with others but with yourself. When you prioritize your well-being, you set the tone for the kind of relationships you want in your life.
In 2025, let’s commit to embracing gratitude, setting boundaries, and growing into our best selves. Let’s choose love—love for ourselves, love for those who respect us, and love for the journey ahead.
Here’s to health, happiness, and harmony. ✨
References
- Demir, M., & Özdemir, M. (2010). Friendship, need satisfaction, and happiness. Journal of Happiness Studies, 11(2), 243-259.
- Emmons, R. A., & McCullough, M. E. (2003). Counting blessings versus burdens: An experimental investigation of gratitude and subjective well-being in daily life. Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, 84(2), 377-389.
- Jacka, F. N., Mykletun, A., Berk, M., et al. (2014). The association between habitual diet quality and the common mental disorders in community-dwelling adults: The Hordaland Health Study. Psychosomatic Medicine, 73(6), 483-490.
- Kabat-Zinn, J. (2003). Mindfulness-based interventions in context: Past, present, and future. Clinical Psychology: Science and Practice, 10(2), 144-156.
- Marselle, M. R., Warber, S. L., & Irvine, K. N. (2019). Walking for well-being: Are group walks in certain types of natural environments better for well-being than group walks in urban environments? International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 16(20), 4010.
- Mikulincer, M., & Shaver, P. R. (2016). Attachment in adulthood: Structure, dynamics, and change (2nd ed.). New York: Guilford Press.
- Ratey, J. J., & Loehr, J. E. (2011). The positive impact of physical activity on cognition during adulthood: A review of underlying mechanisms, evidence, and recommendations. Current Sports Medicine Reports, 10(1), 1-8.
- Ryan, R. M., & Deci, E. L. (2017). Self-determination theory: Basic psychological needs in motivation, development, and wellness. Guilford Press.
- Smith, J. A., & Brunner, R. L. (2017). Boundaries for emotional and relational health: A review. Journal of Psychological Science and Practice, 22(4), 15-25.
- Walker, M. P., et al. (2020). Sleep and emotional health. Annual Review of Psychology, 71(1), 143-166.
Artist & Academic 