Friendship leads to a longer life.
Experts say one of the most enriching and life giving act (literally) you can do is to contact your friends and stay in touch.
Whether a short text, a long phone call or get together at home or resaurant, friendship is the key to a longer life and more fulfilling one. And the more frequent contact, the more beneficial and healthier it is for you. Some experts even suggest once a day is the goal to achieve.
One of the first studies was from Harvard University in 1976 where the Nurses Health Studies showed how true friendship can lead to healthier life and longer life.
An Australian study by the Center for Aging Studies at Flinders University followed nearly 1,500 older people for 10 years. The results found that those who had a large network of friends outlived those with the fewest friends by 22%.
One thing interesting to note from this study is that family and children do not have the same effect. While family ties are crucial to one’s life and fulfillment, it didn’t have the same effect as friends outside the family in regards to a longer life. Some experts say that family ties are inherent to our evolution so do not add the enhanced value and lifespan that outside friendships offer.
Make sure that the friendship is real and deep. Real friendship is a two way street. If you’re doing all of the legwork then maybe that person isn’t a true friend. The golden rule is to have a friend, you have to be a friend. You’re equally responsible for reaching out and making the efforts.
Secondly, make sure the friendship is healthy. If hanging out with that friend drains you or leaves you with a negative vibe then you may need to reconsider. If misery loves company then so does being positive and fun.
If you want to make new friends, find that group or social club that share your same interests. Or a support group. Or doing volunteer work for your favorite charity. There are many ways to connect in this world, you just have to make the effort.
Just another B>U Lifestyle Tip.
