By Lina Martinez

Human relationships take work. We could approach the whole thing just as transactions if it weren't for the fact that relationships aren't economics. We have those things called emotions and find substantial value in our relationships. They can be with co-workers, family, friends and of course with your significant other.

The most important things in life are happiness and inner peace. Both are direct functions of our relationships. Strong relationships can influence how long we live, how often we become sick and our effectiveness in our work. It is no surprise that loneliness has been declared to be more detrimental to one's health than smoking.

To that end, we have included four TED talks around furthering the quality of our relationships.

Jenna McCarthy, author of fiction and non-fiction books shares some research on how our marriage relationships really work. Enjoy and zenrupt.

http://www.ted.com In this funny, casual talk from TEDx, writer Jenna McCarthy shares surprising research on how marriages (especially happy marriages) really work. One tip: Do not try to win an Oscar for best actress. TEDTalks is a daily video podcast of the best talks and performances from the TED Conference, where the world's leading thinkers and doers give the talk of their lives in 18 minutes.

Brene Brown discusses the power of vulnerability. As a researcher at the University of Houston Graduate College of Social Work, she has studied how we belong and love.

http://www.ted.com Brene Brown studies human connection -- our ability to empathize, belong, love. In a poignant, funny talk at TEDxHouston, she shares a deep insight from her research, one that sent her on a personal quest to know herself as well as to understand humanity. A talk to share.

Joan Halifax is a Zen priest that understands some things about compassion and empathy.

http://www.ted.com Buddhist roshi Joan Halifax works with people at the last stage of life (in hospice and on death row). She shares what she's learned about compassion in the face of death and dying, and a deep insight into the nature of empathy.

What is the secret to desire in a long term relationship? Esther Perel will tell you how from her research. Watch to find out how to do it.

In long-term relationships, we often expect our beloved to be both best friend and erotic partner. But as Esther Perel argues, good and committed sex draws on two conflicting needs: our need for security and our need for surprise. So how do you sustain desire?

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