Updated: June 2, 2020
Originally Published: July 9, 2017
A couple of years ago, I took a memorable trip to Miami, spending a week with my good friend Claire. This child-free escape was a rare treat for me, as I had only been away from my husband and kids a handful of times in nearly a decade. The excitement of this girls’ getaway was palpable, especially since Claire and I hadn’t had much time alone together since my life became consumed with motherhood. As soon as I stepped into her charming art deco apartment in South Beach, it felt like we were teenagers again, giggling and reminiscing.
Being with Claire felt like stepping back into a previous chapter of my life—one where I had the freedom to eat, sleep, and enjoy life without constantly checking the time. Both of us had taken five days off work, leaving behind the responsibilities of children and partners. We zipped around town on her scooter, lounged on the beach for hours, dressed up for a night at the Miami Opera House to watch Wicked, and indulged in late-night conversations until dawn. We laughed so hard that my cheeks ached!
One of the things I cherish about friendships like mine with Claire is how seamlessly we reconnect, regardless of how much time has passed. I’m fortunate to have a circle of friends who provide valuable perspective on my marriage and motherhood, offering both comic relief and grounding advice when parenting gets overwhelming. They inspire me with their intelligence, courage, and kindness, making me strive to be a better person. What’s truly remarkable is how invested they are in my life; they care deeply about my experiences, just as I do about theirs.
When we take a moment to reflect, it’s astonishing to realize how friendships often blossom from chance encounters. Some of my closest friends have come into my life through random parties, work events, or even a birth class. In Claire’s case, we met while traveling on a farm in Australia.
These friends become integral to our lives, celebrating our successes and supporting us during tough times. They lift us up, remind us of our strengths, and bring joy into our lives. Friends are indeed the family we choose, and I am grateful for mine every day.
The Health Benefits of Friendships
Research shows that maintaining close friendships can lead to numerous health benefits. Individuals with strong social ties are 50% more likely to outlive those without. Close friendships can enhance life expectancy as significantly as quitting smoking and even more than exercising regularly or keeping a healthy weight.
A study from University College London revealed that college students with close friends were 50% less likely to catch a cold compared to those without. Additionally, when faced with stressful situations, individuals reported higher self-worth and lower cortisol levels in the presence of a close friend.
Indeed, consistent interaction with friends boosts our happiness. Research indicates that people are 12 times more likely to feel joyous on days spent with friends. It’s no surprise that a brief chat with an upbeat friend can elevate our spirits and reduce stress levels.
While I didn’t need scientific evidence to appreciate the value of my friendships, my week with Claire reinforced the importance of making time for such experiences. That trip filled my life with immense joy. I laughed more in that week than I had in an entire year, and I recognized how beneficial that was for my mental, physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being.
If you’re looking for more information about maintaining health through friendships or exploring home insemination options, check out this excellent resource on pregnancy and home insemination. And if you’re interested in family planning, don’t forget to look at our post about the Cryobaby Home Intracervical Insemination Syringe Kit.
In summary, nurturing friendships is essential for your overall health and happiness. The connections we build with friends not only enhance our lives but also have profound impacts on our well-being.