Did you know there is a connection between health, vitality, and friendship? Read on to understand the importance of friendship to your health and well-being. Then discover five ways to develop new friendships.
IMPORTANCE OF FRIENDS
Common sense tells us that having friends is important for your well-being. Science backs that up. People with strong friendships are healthier and may live longer. Here are some reasons why:
- Our friends’ healthy habits are contagious. Research shows that when your friends focus on healthy eating and exercise, you’re likely to do the same.
- Friends share our joys. This can multiply our good feelings we have when things are going well.
- Friends give us the support. When times are tough, you need help to make it through.
- Friendships may keep your mind strong. Studies show that isolation and loneliness increase older peoples’ risk for dementia.
HOW TO BUILD NEW FRIENDSHIPS
When you’re young, making friends is second nature. But as you grow older, it may be more challenging to find your tribe. Here are five ways you can build new friendships:
- Stay open and look for opportunities to connect. If you walk around with your head down and a snarl on your face, you’re probably not signaling what a great friend you’d be. Instead, smile and make eye contact. Look for opportunities to start a conversation. Small talk may lead to uncovering a shared interest, and that connection may be enough to get your new friendship off the ground.
- Deepen your relationship with people you already know. It may be easier to take a superficial relationship a little deeper than to start a brand new friendship. Think about people you already know and like, consider what it would take to move that relationship from acquaintance to friend, and take action.
- Invite someone to be a workout buddy. Your shared interest in fitness provides an instant connection. Having an activity to do can make your early interactions easier and more natural.
- Join a group fitness class. Many of the members at Kingwood Fitness developed lasting friendships after meeting in a group fitness class. The instructors at Kingwood Fitness are welcoming, and they can help connect you with others.
- Be brave and take your new friendship beyond the gym. When you’re ready, ask your new friend to join you for coffee or lunch. Taking this step can feel awkward at first but may take the friendship to a whole new level.
You’re off to a great start by being a member of Kingwood Fitness. Many of our members, instructors and trainers have worked out together for years and developed lasting relationships, and we’re excited to have you as a part of this community.
