How To Level Up Your Self-Care By Focusing On Your Relationships

By Mallorie Emken
Sep 08, 2024
Friends laughing.

When we think about self-care, many of us imagine going for a run, eating well, or meditating. But what if we thought of relationship counselling as a vital part of self-care, much like any other wellness habit?

In a world where connection and communication are some of the most meaningful ways to improve well-being, it’s time we started thinking of our relationships in the same way we think about our physical health.

Relationships — whether with a partner, family member, or even colleagues — play a huge role in how we feel day to day. Studies show that strong relationships contribute to better mental health, while toxic or strained relationships can lead to stress, anxiety, and even physical health issues. Investing in these connections should be as much a priority as maintaining a balanced diet or getting enough sleep. Yet, traditional therapy or counselling is often only considered when things go wrong.

With tools like Inetta AI, relationship counselling is now more accessible than ever, making it possible to integrate relationship support into our self-care routine — without waiting for a crisis. Just as we exercise regularly to prevent health problems, we should nurture our relationships continuously to ensure they remain strong, healthy, and fulfilling. Tools like Inetta offer 24/7 guidance, allowing users to address issues before they become major conflicts, making counseling proactive rather than reactive.

Research shows that regular self-care, including relationship support, reduces stress, improves emotional regulation, and fosters deeper intimacy and satisfaction in relationships. Studies on relationship dynamics suggest that prioritizing connection and communication enhances not only personal happiness but also overall relationship satisfaction. A balanced routine of self-care that includes nurturing our relationships can lead to longer-lasting, more fulfilling connections.

Inetta AI makes this continuous care possible, offering personalised relationship coaching whenever and wherever you need it. Instead of waiting until a relationship reaches its breaking point, tools like Inetta help individuals and couples strengthen their connections, manage conflicts, and build healthier emotional bonds before, during and even after problems escalate.

When we consistently care for our relationships, we experience more meaningful connections and emotional fulfilment. This translates into better mental health and greater life satisfaction.

Research has shown that strong, healthy relationships lower stress and increase resilience, whereas strained relationships can have the opposite effect, leading to burnout and even physical health issues like high blood pressure and weakened immunity.

Moreover, just as we schedule regular workouts or time to relax, we can prioritise time to work on our relationships — whether through conversations, shared activities, or using a supportive tool like Inetta AI. The constant accessibility of such platforms makes it easy to check in on the health of your relationship, rather than waiting for problems to arise.

Imagine a world where taking care of our relationships is as common as hitting the gym or planning meals. With tools like Inetta AI, this world is becoming a reality. Not only does it provide expert guidance on navigating personal and professional relationships, but it also offers an affordable and convenient solution to something that has traditionally been seen as a last resort.

In a world where we prioritise our mental, physical, and emotional well-being, our relationships can truly thrive. And with tools like Inetta AI making relationship care more accessible than ever, there’s no reason why tending to our connections shouldn’t be a regular part of our self-care routines. After all, strong relationships lead to a happier, healthier life.

More Articles To Enjoy

You’re Not Alone: Why Couples Therapy Scares Us More Than Self-Help

[Couple hugging] While many people eagerly seek out personal therapy as part of their self-care routine, couples or relationship therapy often feels like a much harder step. There’s an underlying fear that discussing relationship problems means admitting there’s something fundamentally broken, and for many, that feels like failure. However, research shows that relationship therapy is incredibly beneficial. “A survey conducted in 2023 found that 99% of couples who attended therapy felt it had a positive impact on their relationship, yet only 37% of adults had ever attended.” One of the main concerns holding people back from couples therapy is the fear that their partner won’t fully engage. Many individuals feel alone in their efforts to improve the relationship, worried that their partner may not show up — either physically or emotionally. This concern can amplify feelings of isolation, even within a partnership. Yet, the act of showing up to therapy is a powerful indicator that both partners care about the future of their relationship. It’s a step that shows a willingness to invest in something better. The hesitation also comes from the fact that couples therapy often feels more vulnerable than personal therapy. Personal therapy is viewed as self-care, a personal growth journey where there’s only you and the therapist. Couples therapy, on the other hand, introduces another layer of emotional complexity. It’s not just about working through your own issues — it’s about confronting those of your partner as well, which can feel intimidating. Also, many people avoid couples therapy because they worry it will be a high-pressure situation. Traditional therapy often involves booking appointments, coordinating schedules, and committing to sessions with both partners fully present, which can be daunting. However, modern solutions are changing the game, making relationship support more accessible and less intimidating. That’s where Inetta AI steps in to change the dynamic. Inetta AI eliminates these barriers by offering therapy and coaching on your own schedule. You don’t need to wait weeks for an appointment or stress about convincing your partner to join a session. With Inetta, you can start with personal therapy and open confidential, separate relationship chats. This means that one person can begin working on the relationship even if the other isn’t ready. Eventually, Inetta makes it easy to invite a partner or family member into the conversation — without the high-pressure setting of an in-person appointment. This flexibility not only makes relationship therapy more accessible but also removes much of the stigma and discomfort that people often associate with it. The app offers real-time guidance and allows couples or family members to explore issues at their own pace. This makes it easier to navigate sensitive topics and build stronger emotional connections without waiting for things to become more serious or unmanageable . In the end, the reluctance to pursue relationship therapy often stems from fear — fear of rejection, fear of vulnerability, and fear of failure. But showing up, whether it’s alone or together, is the first and most important step in showing that you care. And in a time when only a minority of people are seeking couples therapy, the always-available, low-pressure format of AI therapy could be the key to making relationship care a routine part of life.

Sabina Storberg

Why Do We Wait For A Crisis Before Seeking Relationship Support?

[Family at the beach.] Couples therapy has long been seen as a last resort — a band-aid for failing marriages or relationships already on the brink. But why is this the case? Why aren’t more couples using therapy and counselling as a proactive tool to strengthen their relationships before serious issues arise? The answer, in large part, comes down to cost and accessibility. Statistics show that only 37% of adults have ever participated in couples therapy, and a mere 10% are currently in it. Even more concerning, 38% of people who considered therapy ultimately decided against it because they found it too expensive. “For those already navigating relationship stress, financial pressure can make the idea of therapy feel more like a luxury than a necessity.” Yet, we know that relationships — both at home and at work — have profound effects on our mental health. Strong relationships can boost emotional well-being, whereas strained ones can lead to anxiety, depression, and burnout. Studies show that individuals experiencing relationship conflicts are at higher risk for developing mental health issues like depression and anxiety. On the flip side, couples in strong, supportive relationships report higher levels of satisfaction and emotional resilience. This raises the question: What would a world where all relationships — romantic, familial, and professional — were thriving thanks to constant, affordable support look like? Could a tool like Inetta AI, which offers 24/7 relationship coaching and support, make this possible? Inetta allows users to access guidance and support without the traditional barriers of scheduling appointments or paying exorbitant fees. It offers real-time assistance for individuals and couples who want to proactively work on their relationships, not just when they’re in crisis. This shift could mean that therapy and relationship coaching become regular parts of maintaining healthy relationships, much like how we think of exercise or self-care. Could there be a world where everyone gets the relationship support they need without breaking the bank? Imagine a world where therapy isn’t seen as a last resort, but as an ongoing resource to help people navigate the inevitable challenges of relationships. Regular relationship coaching could lead to stronger family dynamics, fewer divorces, and better mental health overall. And for employers, offering relationship support as a benefit could lead to happier, more engaged employees. After all, studies have shown that when people feel supported in their relationships, both at home and at work, they are more productive and less likely to experience burnout. Inetta, with its affordable, accessible, and continuous support model, could be the key to making this vision a reality. By offering round-the-clock guidance, it removes the barriers that have long kept couples from seeking help when they truly need it — before serious problems arise. Should therapy only be used to patch up relationships on the verge of collapse, or could it become a regular part of keeping relationships strong? With tools like Inetta, we may not have to wait until things are falling apart to seek help. This could mark a fundamental shift in how we approach relationships, fostering stronger connections in both our personal lives and the workplace.

Mallorie Emken

Can You Love Your Parents and Still Be Hurt by Them? The Emotional Truth

[Family running] When our parents or family members hurt us, the emotional pain can be profound. Family relationships, especially with parents, are foundational to our sense of self, and when those bonds are strained or broken, it can leave lasting emotional scars. What makes these experiences even more challenging is that families often still love each other despite the hurt, creating a confusing mix of emotions — wanting to heal but not knowing how. Research shows that unresolved conflicts within families, particularly between parents and children, are incredibly common. “According to studies, over 75% of people who experience family conflict say it affects their emotional well-being, leading to issues like depression, anxiety, and stress. Yet, despite the emotional toll, many families struggle to repair these wounds. A significant barrier is the inability to communicate effectively about past hurts without falling into old patterns of blame or defensiveness.” One reason family conflicts are so difficult to resolve is that they often stem from unspoken expectations. Parents may expect certain behaviors from their children without clearly communicating them, leading to misunderstandings. Meanwhile, children may feel pressure to meet these expectations without feeling emotionally supported. This disconnect breeds resentment and frustration, creating long-lasting rifts. Research also highlights that attachment issues play a significant role in family conflicts. Parents and children may carry unmet emotional needs from childhood into adulthood, which can manifest in cyclical arguments that never seem to reach resolution. Another reason family hurt is so difficult to address is the fear of vulnerability. Family members may be afraid to confront the pain head-on because they fear rejection or judgment, which keeps them locked in unhealthy dynamics. “In fact, studies suggest that many individuals avoid confronting family members who have hurt them because they fear the confrontation will only lead to more pain, rather than healing.” Further complicating these dynamics is the reality of different communication styles. Parents and children often communicate in vastly different ways, especially across generations. This can make it even harder to understand each other’s emotions and needs, leading to further misunderstandings. For example, parents may prioritise respect and authority in communication, while their adult children may seek empathy and emotional validation. Another significant challenge is that past traumas — whether from childhood or past relationships — often resurface during family conflicts. Without acknowledging and addressing these deeper issues, it becomes nearly impossible to resolve the present-day conflicts that they fuel. For those who want to repair these relationships, the first step is often setting boundaries to protect emotional well-being. Clear boundaries help both parties understand what is acceptable and what isn’t, which can prevent future hurt. “Another critical step is open communication — having honest, vulnerable conversations about the pain caused, even when it feels difficult. However, this is easier said than done, and many families struggle to have these conversations without falling back into old patterns.” This is where tools like Inetta AI can offer a new approach to healing. Traditional family therapy often requires both parties to be fully committed to attending sessions, which can be a significant barrier when one person isn’t ready to engage. Inetta AI provides an alternative by allowing individuals to start personal therapy on their own terms. Later, they can invite family members into confidential, AI-facilitated conversations when both parties are ready. This flexibility removes the pressure of face-to-face confrontation, making it easier to start the healing process. Moreover, AI-assisted mediation ensures that both sides are heard and understood without falling into the traps of old communication patterns. Family conflicts are painful, but with the right tools and approach, healing is possible. By setting boundaries, fostering open communication, and seeking support when necessary, it’s possible to rebuild these important relationships. With continuous, on-demand support from tools like Inetta AI, families can work toward understanding each other without the fear of rejection or confrontation.

Sabina Storberg