Because a marriage is woven together by the love, devotion, and shared experiences of both people, it is sometimes compared to a tapestry. But it’s easy to forget how crucial it is to look after oneself in the middle of all the lovely details of a relationship. Preserving one’s own physical and mental well-being is not only a commendable personal goal but also a crucial element in the maintenance of a happy marriage. We set out on a quest to discover the importance of self-care within the holy institution of marriage, drawing on the wisdom contained in the scriptures.
Having Knowledge About the Temple Where the Spirit Dwells
The Bible places a high value on the idea that a person’s physical body serves as a temple for the Holy Spirit. In 1 Corinthians 6:19–20, the New International Version of the Bible poses the question, “Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you and whom you have received from God?” to its readers. Because someone else paid money for you, you are not totally free to claim that you are your own. Consequently, honour God with your physical being. Understanding the importance of self-care practices is made possible by acknowledging that the human body is sacred.
The State of Your Body
The biblical principle of taking care of oneself is directly linked to the notion that one should treat one’s own body with respect because it is a temple. This entails providing the body with the right nutrition, moving it in the right ways, and obtaining enough sleep.
Emotional and Psychological Health
The Bible recognises the link between a sound spiritual life and a well-balanced emotional existence. The New International Version (NIV) of Proverbs 17:22 says, “A cheerful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones.” This scripture emphasises how important it is to maintain our mental and emotional well-being in order to worship God with all of our hearts, which is a prerequisite.
The Guidelines Concerning the Sabbath
The Bible’s understanding of the Sabbath promotes relaxation and renewal. Exodus 20:8–11 (NIV) contains the commandment, which is to “Remember the Sabbath day by keeping it holy.” “For in six days the Lord created the heavens and the earth, the sea, and all that is in them, but he rested on the seventh day.” This is an example of how to maintain a healthy balance between work and play in many areas of life, including marriage.
The Path a Married Couple Takes
There are still two people, even if there is just one now.
Marriage brings a tremendous merging of life, yet it is important to recognise each spouse’s unique qualities. An individual’s marriage may function better overall if they acknowledge and prioritize their own pleasure and well-being.
Ability to Control One’s Own Emotions
Couples are better equipped to bring their best selves into a marriage when they can preserve their emotional well-being apart from it. Paul provides the following guidance in Philippians 4:7-8 of the New International Version: “And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” If anything remains, think about what is good or commendable—that is, what is real, honourable, correct, pure, gorgeous, and admirable. This is the last but certainly not the least step, brothers and sisters. An enhanced emotional environment within the marriage will result from encouraging both partners to develop their emotional autonomy.
Giving In to Your Hobbies and Interests
Inspiring one another to follow one’s distinct hobbies and interests leads to growth and a sense of fulfilment for both the individual and the marriage.
“So I saw that there is nothing better for a person than to enjoy their work, because that is their lot,” the New International Version of Ecclesiastes 3:22 says. Who will be able to guide them to the delayed events that will occur? Engaging in a partner’s personal activities can contribute to their increased sense of fulfilment and satisfaction in the relationship.
Communication channels and limitations
To encourage good self-care habits in a married couple, it’s important to have open discussions about each partner’s individual needs and establish reasonable boundaries. “Instead, speaking the truth in love, we will grow to become in every respect the mature body of him who is the head, that is, Christ,” according to Ephesians 4:15, New International Version. Real and compassionate communication is necessary for a relationship in which both parties feel heard and understood.
To learn how to communicate in ways that foster understanding, intimacy, and mutual respect, get the online course on Effective Communication in Marriage.
Practical Techniques: Creating Daily Self-Care Routines
Both partners’ health benefits when self-care routines are included into daily activities. Even seemingly little actions can have a big influence on harmony and balance maintenance.
Group-Wide Introspection and Commitment
It is good for one’s spiritual well-being to routinely get together in the morning to meditate and pray. David asks in Psalm 143:8, “Let the morning bring me word of your unfailing kindness, for I have put my trust in you.” This verse is translated as follows in the NIV: “I have put my trust in you.” Since I am entrusting my life to you, please guide me down the path. Engaging in this spiritual practice as a couple strengthens the bond and gives them a good start to the day.
Creating Consistent Bedtime Schedules
The establishment of rest rituals respects the concept of the Sabbath in the context of marriage. These routines might be as simple as going on frequent dates, spending peaceful evenings at home, or having lazy weekends. The New International Version of Mark 6:31 describes Jesus’ invitation to his disciples to “come with me by yourselves to a quiet place and get some rest.” This illustrates how crucial it is to set aside time on your calendar for deliberate relaxation and self-repair.
Supporting One Another’s Personal Interests
It is good for mental and emotional health to support one another’s passions and interests. Paul offers the following counsel in Philippians 2:4 (NIV): “Do not look to your own interests but to each other’s.”
To learn more practical ways to achieve this, Get my book, Balancing Love, Passion, and Virtue. Available on Amazon and Selar