The Health Benefits of Friends

I just returned from an annual get-together with friends on an East Coast beach. Each year, about twenty of us celebrate birthdays, life, and the beauty of friendship.

We come together to remember who we once were, and to make a new declaration about who we are now. Away from the regular stress of life, we are able to see ourselves in each other and each other in ourselves.

It is enlightening.  It is enlivening.  I feel renewed.

Recently, I read an article in the New York Times that wondered what leads to the the health benefits of friends. It seems that scientists can’t quite figure out what it is about being with friends that makes you feel better, live longer, and view the world as less threatening.

I think it’s love.  And presence.

When we’re alone, we are confronted with the chatter in our minds.  When we engage in this dialogue – especially the negative thinking – we cause stress in our bodies.  Stress depletes our reserves and leads to stagnation.  Health suffers.

When we’re with friends, especially in a relaxing environment, we’re able to show up as our highest selves.  We connect to each other and bring our attention to the present moment.  This helps free our bodies from stress.  Health benefits.

When we feel love coming through our friends, we feel connected to something greater than ourselves.  We vibrate at a higher frequency.

We awaken.

This awakening is the key to vibrant health. Spend more time with friends and you’ll live a happier, healthier life.

Tags: friends, health

This entry was posted on Wednesday, May 20th, 2009 at 11:39 am and is filed under mind/body. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed.