Relationship tip of the day: Sri Sri Ravishankar’s golden rule for happy marriages: “In a marriage, you should consider…” | – The Times of India
Marriage: That beautiful chaos where two lives merge, fights happen over little things, and yet love somehow endures. But what if the secret to a happy married life isn’t just grand gestures or constant date nights? Revealing this, Indian spiritual guru Sri Sri Ravi Shankar shared his timeless tip in one of his discourses, “In a marriage, you should consider the other person as your own part – like your arm or leg. It’s two bodies, one mind, one soul.” Here’s how this idea can help you keep your marriage happy and long-lasting:The core idea: Your spouse as your own limbImagine your arm itching – you scratch it without debate. That’s Sri Sri Ravishankar’s metaphor: Treat your partner like an extension of yourself. “Whatever your spouse desires, you make it your own desire. Your spouse’s taste, consider it as your own taste.” Conflicts brew when tastes diverge and you both are adamant about it? in such situations, he says one should adopt unity and the attitude, “Your pleasure is my pleasure.” Fostering harmony can help get over ego clashes.However, this isn’t blind surrender to your spouse’s demands; instead, it is a conscious choice to keep the love growing. Gurudev warns one avoid saying, “What can you do for me?” as it multiplies unhappiness. Instead he says, “In a happy marriage, each couple resolves “I’m here for you, come what may, happy times or unhappy times! In life sometimes there are disappointments, sometimes there is success. In either case, I’m with you.” It shows that through life’s ups and downs, you’re a team. One body, one mind, one soul – profound yet practical.Why his marriage advice worksSri Sri Ravishankar’s advice echoes psychology. John Gottman’s research shows “bids for connection” – those tiny “notices me?” moments – predict divorce. Unified couples ace them, turning “me” into “we.” Neuroscience backs it: Mirror neurons make us feel others’ joys/pains as our own, building bonds.Here’s the real talk: Early marriage highs fade when life’s grind tests unity. That’s when the mindset, “I’m with you, come what may” helps weather the storms.At a time when modern marriages don’t last long, Sri Sri Ravishankar’s marriage advice teaches couples to have a unity mindset to counter selfishness. It’s selfless service (seva) meets partnership – spiritual depth for secular lives. Weddings vow “for better or worse”; live it daily.What’s your “unity hack” for a happy relationship and family? Share your ideas below.
