The Power of Friendships
I was thinking about my friends today. A group photo popped up in my memories as a confirmation that one of the most wonderful things in life is having a friend.
My friends have been around for more years than I even got to spend with my parents. In fact, I have known them longer than my husband and children. That is a tremendous relationship.
Friends know you through countless stages, ups, and downs. I was speaking to my friends the other day, and immediately, my burdens felt lighter. So, me being me, I decided to research the effect of friendship on your health. This is what I found:
Health Benefits Of Friendship
Friendship has serious health benefits! Did you know lots of studies have been done on the benefits of strong friendships? Friendships have been shown to lower blood pressure, reduce stress, and lead to overall better health. Mentally, friendships have been shown to increase mental well-being, boost self-esteem, increase happiness, improve cognitive function, and even activate the pleasure and reward centers of your brain simply by thinking about your friends!
That’s amazing!!
Reach Out
Some of us are a bit more introverted, I count myself in that category. Although I can be pleasant, personable, and even gregarious, I am an introvert at heart. That means that my default is not to reach out, but rather, to reach in when it comes to my personal life. Reminding yourself to reach out to your friends can do wonders for your health and well-being. If you have a friend or a family member whom you can talk to when things get difficult, talk to them. It may be just the boost you need.
Not Everyone
I know that not everyone has a person. If you happen to be in a season where that describes you, there are also options. You can reach out to a therapist – sometimes just talking to someone in a no-judgement zone helps. If you have a church, you can talk to a pastor. Some people have their pets – that is nothing to sneeze at. My dog, Blinky, was a great listener in middle school. Other times, I have felt there was only God to talk to – you might be surprised at the comfort you can receive when talking to Him.
Roads
I’ve been down a lot of roads and had lots of experiences. Through it all, there is one who is never too far away. There’s even a song about it,
What a friend we have in JesusAll our sins and griefs to bearWhat a privilege to carryEverything to God in prayerO what peace we often forfeitO what needless pain we bearAll because we do not carryEverything to God in prayerHave we trials and temptations?Is there trouble anywhere?We should never be discouragedTake it to the Lord in prayerCan we find a friend so faithfulWho will all our sorrows share?Jesus knows our every weaknessTake it to the Lord in prayerSongwriters: Charles Converse / Joseph Scriven
Very nice. I love that hymn, too.
Thank you! It’s a great reminder 🙂