Communication is key to any healthy relationship. Good communication is when both people feel comfortable expressing their desires, fears, feelings, and listen to the other person respectfully. In a healthy relationship neither person should be fearful to communicate how they are feeling.
A healthy sexual relationship takes communication and work. Being open and honest about sexuality is important. Timing is also important. If sex is only discussed when being intimate with your partner this can be an issue. Sexual boundaries and preferences should be discussed before sexual activity; this builds intimacy and respect for a healthy relationship.
Healthy relationships are all different but for the most part they share 5 common “S.H.A.R.E” qualities:
- Safety: Both people feel safe in the relationship. There is no worry about harm emotionally or physically. You also feel safe to express your own opinion without fear of disapproval.
- Honesty: Both people can be completely honest and there is no hiding anything. You can admit to being wrong, as well as resolve arguments with honest talk.
- Acceptance: You accept each other for who you are, and appreciate the characteristics that make them special and unique. You do not try to “fix” them and make them a certain way.
- Respect: There is equality between the two of you. You think highly of each other and respect that you can have different opinions.
- Enjoyment: A healthy relationship has to be enjoyable! You feel energized and alive with your partner.
Sources:
http://www.calgarysexualhealth.ca/sexual-health-info/communication-decision-making/
http://www.cfsh.ca/Your_Sexual_Health/Healthy_Relationships.aspx
