Friendship is a place where we derive great meaning and joy in our lives. The frequency with which we see our friends and the way we feel when we’re around our friends are positively associated with life satisfaction, according to research in the National Library of Medicine.
So when it comes to practicing your own wellness through exercise, eating healthy, and achieving your life goals, it makes sense that friends can help. Not only will you build strong friendships by working on wellness together, but you’ll be taking care of your own health long term.
Here are some ways to practice wellness with your friends:
Convincing yourself to exercise alone is challenging for some people. One way to be more motivated to workout is to do it with friends. Sign up for a class together at your local gym, especially one that you both have never tried before. Branching out of your comfort zone is easier when you have someone to share the new experience with.
Whether you have a goal to meditate more frequently or to stop eating sugar, friends can be great resources for holding yourself accountable. Share something with your friend that you would like to be held accountable for, and ask if they can check in with you once every two weeks to see how you’re progressing in your goal. You can do the same for them, so that together, you both have someone to be accountable to for your progress.
It’s common in our American culture to ask each other how we’re doing, but this is usually not asked or answered with sincerity. But you and your friends can change that. When you hang out or talk on the phone, give each other space to share how you’re doing emotionally. Listening well is an important next step. This includes validating each other’s feelings, repeating what you think you heard to make sure you understand, and thanking each other for being willing to share.
Have a goal to eat healthier? Find a sous-chef in your friend, and commit to making delicious, healthy meals when you hang out. This is a great alternative to heading out to fast food with friends. The internet is full of healthy meals that also taste delicious, and that can be tailored to any budget. You can even go grocery shopping together to make the event more fun!
Questions about health insurance? Contact a Sea Mountain Health Insurance Specialist today!
