The Top Five Reasons Family Traditions and Rituals Are Vital To Your Marriage

Family traditions and rituals are sometimes thought to be boring at one time or another, but most people have fond memories of a family tradition or ritual from their childhood. Perhaps it was how a holiday was celebrated, or perhaps what you did as a family every meal-time. Whatever it was, it puts a smile on your face today.

According to studies, marriages where family rituals and traditions are positive, build resilience, are happier, and have fewer conflicts. In other words, family rituals and traditions make marriages better.

‘Write these commandments that I’ve given you today on your hearts. Get them inside of you and then get them inside your children. Talk about them wherever you are, sitting at home or walking in the street; talk about them from the time you get up in the morning to when you fall into bed at night. Tie them on your hands and foreheads as a reminder; inscribe them on the doorposts of your homes and on your city gates.’ Deut 6:6 (MSG)

Why are family rituals and traditions so vital?

  1. They create meaning and purpose. Family traditions and rituals tend to include an aspect of faith and spirituality. Families have a regular reminder of long-term, weightier, and more meaningful things in life.
  2. They build strength. Family traditions and rituals improve health and the immune system. It is like getting a booster shot of resiliency for any tough family times in the family’s future.
  3. They create identity. Family rituals and traditions remind us who we are and who we belong to. It is especially impactful for children and teens as they face peer pressure because, “that’s not how we Wooten’s do it.” In some way, it acts as a prophylactic telling the world that you belong to your spouse.
  4. They connect generations. Grandparents tell grandchildren stories about how they did the same thing with their grandparents.
  5. They create deep and strong connections. Family traditions and rituals provide opportunities for self evaluation and family examination. Sharing what is going on within me connects me with whomever I’m sharing with.

What are family traditions and rituals?

Daily Rituals or Traditions might include

  • How we greet each other as we connect after school and work
  • Family meal together with conversation (no tv or devices)
  • Praying together
  • Bedtime devotional, reading or prayer
  • Family hugs or “secret family handshake”

Weekly Rituals or Traditions might include

  • Family Game Night (taking turns picking the game)
  • Family Movie Night
  • Worship Services Together
  • Saturday Breakfast Together
  • Family Meeting

Monthly or Less Frequent Rituals or Traditions might include

  • Family Ministry or Service Day
  • Holiday Celebrations
  • Birthday and Half Birthday Celebrations
  • Back to School Dinner
  • Marriage Anniversary Celebrations

What Do You Have To Say?

We always love to hear from our readers. What would you add to our list? What are your favorite family traditions from your childhood? What new family tradition have you implemented in the family you are creating?

This article was written by Roy and Devra Wooten, authors of “The Secret to a Lifetime Love”. Learn more at www.LifeTogetherForever.com © Roy and Devra Wooten 2015. All Rights Reserved. You may replicate this article as long as it is provided free to recipients and includes appropriate attribution. Written permission for other use may be obtained at [email protected].

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Categories: Creating The Marriage You Want, Free Resources for Couples, Parenting
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