This is one my favorite pictures, ever. Lisa and I had finished our long runs, and ran back to join Christy for the rest of hers. This pretty much sums us up. We’re there for each other.
We talk about nutrition. We talk about exercise. We even talk about getting enough sleep. Water. Taking vitamins. We talk about all these things and how they all contribute to our health and well being.
But one thing we don’t talk about much? Relationships. Specifically, friendships.
According to the Mayo Clinic, friendships can:
- increase your sense of belonging and purpose;
- boost your happiness;
- reduce stress;
- improve your self-worth;
- help you cope with traumas, such as divorce, serious illness, job loss or death of a loved one; and
- encourage you to change or avoid unhealthy lifestyle habits.
I know that a lot of this seems, well, obvious. But how often do you think about your friendships and the value they have in your life?
My friends, near and far, old and new, are my lifeline. There are times when I step back and realize that I’m doing a terrible job of nurturing those friendships. I can always take comfort in the fact that my true friends will forgive me and will be there, with open arms and kind words.
To be healthy – to have a fulfilled existence, friends are vital. I know that if I’m having the worst day ever, I can jump on my email or pick up the phone and one of my girlfriends will be there with a few cuss words to match mine, and a whole lot of compassion. And usually, some much needed perspective.
Nurture your relationships. Make time for one another. It’s good for your health, and it’s good for your friend’s health. Win-win.
Pick up the phone, fire up your email. Schedule some girl time. IT’S GOOD FOR YOU!
Photo Courtesy of Amanda Wintenburg
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