International Day of Friendship!

July 30th is International Day of Friendship

“A good friend is the best thing you can have and the best thing you can be.”

What could be better than a good friend? Today, people all over the globe celebrate the wonderful relationships in their life with friends. Friends can come in many shapes and forms, from a childhood friend, to a more formal work friendship with colleagues. Friendships can grow and develop, and unfortunately sometimes they fizzle out.

Studies have proven that friendships are not only very beneficial for your health, but that they can help you live longer! Any kind of friendship has a positive impact on your health, but meaningful friendships have the strongest correlation to improved well being. Friendships help bolster emotional, mental, and even physical health. Spending time with people you enjoy being with lowers your cortisol levels and relieves stress.You are less likely to feel pain and may even sleep better.

Friendships do take work. It is important to make an effort and communicate with friends in order to keep in touch. Other key components of healthy friendships include respect, trust, and openness. Active listening helps cultivate positive friendships, as does being there for your friends in a time of need or for laughs.

Today, reach out to your friends on International Friendship Day to know that you care about them and appreciate your friendship! You can also go out and make new friends by pursuing hobbies or joining a group. Cheers to friendship!