Symbiotic Relationships: What Nature Teaches Us About Human Connection

The artwork ʻAlalā Ecosystem is a watercolor painting inspired by the ʻAlalā or Hawaiian Crow. Now extinct in the wild this keystone species was vital in supporting the native Hawaiian ecosystem, including the plants and animals depicted within the painting. On its back the ʻAlalā carries the iconic 'Ohi'a lehua tree, several native mushrooms and mosses, hāpu'u or tree fern, pūkiawe shrub, and 'oha kepau shrub. These plants support the featured Hawaiian sphinx moth and the Hawaiian blue butterfly. Finally, the native white hibiscus grows from the heart. There is so much to learn from the relationships within nature. 

In the natural world, symbiotic relationships are essential for survival, growth, and balance. An example many of us know and love is showcased in Finding Nemo where they show the clownfish and sea anemone. The clownfish finds safety within the anemone's tentacles which sting most predators and the anemone is cleaned of parasites and debris by the clownfish. Another example we see more often in our own worlds is the relationship between a bee and a butterfly - the bee is able to nourish themselves with the flowers nectar while also spreading pollen to other flowers, eventually helping the flowers to reproduce. Nature thrives on partnerships where both parties benefit—and sometimes, even depend on one another. But these relationships don’t just exist in the wild. Humans experience symbiosis too, often in ways we might not immediately recognize.

What Is a Symbiotic Relationship?

In biology, a symbiotic relationship is a close and long-term interaction between two different species. These connections are often categorized as:

• Mutualism – Both benefit.

• Commensalism – One benefits, the other is unaffected.

• Parasitism – One benefits at the other’s expense.

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When we think about human relationships through this natural lens, we gain a new appreciation for the connections we build and maintain, both healthy and harmful. Everything in nature's primary goal is to survive. When we take a step back and look at the own harmful relationships we may have put ourselves in we can ask ourselves how is this helping me survive? How is it helping me thrive?

Symbiosis in Human Relationships

1. Mutualistic Relationships

These are the most enriching connections we can have—friendships where both people grow, partnerships where strengths are shared, and communities that thrive through collaboration. In these bonds, we give and receive support, love, and energy. They may not always be easy and we certainly make plenty of mistakes along the way, but do these relationships help us thrive? Do they help us do better?

Examples:

• A mentor and mentee who learn from each other.

• A romantic partnership where each person lifts the other.

• A team where every member contributes and benefits.

  
  

2. Commensal Relationships

Sometimes, we offer help without expecting anything in return, and that's completely okay. It often even helps build our relationship with ourselves! In fact, check out our last two blog posts on The Love Challenge and Acts of Kindness if you haven't already. In everyday scenarios, maybe you find yourself listening to someone who needs to vent or offering a ride to a friend. These moments may not impact us deeply, but they can make a meaningful difference for someone else. Just because they aren't necessarily reciprocating in this moment does not mean that it is a negative relationship

Examples:

• Letting someone merge in traffic 

• Sharing advice that helps someone. 

3. Parasitic Relationships

Unfortunately, not all relationships are healthy. Some drain our energy, self-esteem, or resources. Recognizing these dynamics is key to setting boundaries and protecting your peace. A parasite within a tree may be the reason for disease and toxicity within a once strong and mighty oak. 

Examples:

• A one-sided friendship that consistently takes without giving.

• A work relationship where one person exploits the other’s efforts.

• A romantic relationship where one person is left unsupported.

  
  

Learning from Nature

Nature doesn’t question the value of relationships, it depends on it. Trees share nutrients through their root systems, birds clean the backs of large mammals, and entire ecosystems flourish through balance. We, too, are part of an interconnected system, and our emotional, mental, and social well-being improves when we nourish healthy connections.

How to Foster Mutualism in Your Life

• Reflect on your relationships. Which ones give you energy? Which ones drain you?

• Communicate openly. Clear communication is the root of any strong relationship.

• Offer support—and ask for it too. Allow yourself to give and receive help. 

• Be present. Sometimes, the most powerful gift we can offer is our presence.

• Celebrate others. Lift others up and let them lift you too.

  
  

Final Thoughts

Symbiosis reminds us that we’re not meant to do life alone. Whether it's in nature or in our communities; collaboration, compassion, and connection create the conditions for growth. So take a look around—what relationships are helping you thrive? And how can you show up for others in the same way?

Let’s build a world rooted in mutual care, just like nature intended.