Friendship to ease you

Dear Friends,

I just had a really lovely phone conversation with my friend Amutha. Amutha has been sick in recent weeks and during our conversation, she told me that she felt she had recovered faster from her illness due to the support she received from friends like me. I was and am very touched by her remark. However, I am not surprised by the idea that friendships have the power to better our well-being.

Scientific studies reveal that friendships and positive emotional connections have an influential role over our health. In fact, our relationships with good friends are apparently even more important to our psychological well-being than family relationships. Such relationships for the elderly who remain socially active boost their cognitive functions and help them to stay healthier and live longer.

However, we all can enjoy the benefits of friendships, But we have to invest time and energy into developing and maintaining them. I know that sometimes this is easier said than done, but it is well worth the effort. According to the Mind experts, having friends can help you to reduce your stress levels, boost your self-esteem, improve your personal lifestyle and leave you feeling happier and more fulfilled. Now those are some substantial benefits.

Even with a busy lifestyle, you can find ways to maintain friendships. With the internet and cell phones and the like, it is easier than ever to connect with friends, so take advantage of those opportunities to make a short phone call, instant message or share on Facebook. Another way to keep up with friends is through lunch dates. We have to eat so why not invite a friend you to enjoy a meal so that you can catch up with each other? Any activity that will put you together with a friend for some quality time can make your life and theirs much better. The possibilities are many: shop together, play bridge, exercise at the gym, go for walks.

And if you are looking to build new friendships, try things like volunteering or joining a community group such as a trainers’ club, reading group, crafting circle, or some other organization that appeals to you and will put you in close proximity to others with similar interests. Don't be afraid to accept invitations to social events, even if you don't know very many people. You'll find it easier to get to know people and create friendships if you put yourself out there.

I'm sure you have some wonderful friends, but how long has it been since you made some time for them? It's never too late to reconnect with old friends or to work on finding and building new friendships. Having good friends really can be a lifesaver!

I challenge you to connect with at least three friends this week; whether they are friends from your past or you are reaching out to someone you'd like to know better.