At Under the Covers we firmly believe that the best sex is enjoyed in strong, happy relationships that are rooted in healthy intimacy principles. Each relationship may be completely different, but there are certain fundamental similarities that underpin love alliances that work.

We put the question to our panel of relationship experts and they reported that the following component are non-negotiable if you wish to foster a loving relationship:

Open communication channels

If there is one thing that will tank a relationship quicker than anything else, it is secrecy and an inability to open up and share. The truth of the matter is that you can only ever truly get to know another person if you open up your mouth and tell them what it going on inside your head – it’s as simple as that. Happy relationships are based on the mutual understanding that each partner will voice their feelings in order to keep the ship on course.

The willingness to compromise

Every individual wants to have things a certain way – we all have particular likes and dislikes that don’t necessarily correlate with those of the people we choose to have in our lives. The only way to smooth over this potential discordance is to be willing to give in to your partner’s needs and wants once in a while. The important thing to remember is not to keep score and not to see compromise as a weakness.

Being at ease with one another

Happy relationships are not fraught with tension – it is a safe space in which two individuals can be themselves and know that they are loved for who they really are. If you feel that you have to pretend in front of your partner (or conversely, if you feel the need to constantly mould your partner into something they’re not), you might want to reconsider the association.

Fighting in your partner’s corner

If there is one thing we cannot stress enough, it is that your partner should always feel that you have their back. A relationship in which one party feels belittled or downtrodden will never go the distance; if you wish to secure your future with your significant other, always ensure that your team spirit is up to scratch.

 
And there you have it – four key components of a healthy, happy relationship that will stand the test of time. Keep your eye on the Under the Covers blog for more helpful information on keeping your relationship strong in the face of adversity.