The saying goes that one should choose their friends wisely. Or perhaps be a friend to get a friend.
Either way, having good friends is good for your mental health. In today’s world, it seems like negativity is everywhere. It is on television, newspapers, the internet and has found a way into social media. It can be overwhelming and sadly, very unhealthy.
We make choices everyday of our lives. From food to amount of exercise. So why can’t we make choices with friendships and relationships. One can argue that is just as important as what we put in our bodies.
What I have found over the years is that not everyone has to be a friend. Not everyone needs to enter my social media feed. It is okay to seek out people that can offer courage and strength which help you find new sources of meaning and will improve your overall well-being.
Could it be that our friends and relationships with others are playing a significant role in promoting our overall health? Is it true that social connections can reduce the risk of many significant health problems, including depression, high blood pressure and an unhealthy body mass index (BMI)?
I am not a doctor or scientist, however, know I certainly feel better after spending time with my family and friends. I know with good relationships it influences my healthy behaviors, I am happier, helps me cope with grief. In research, I’ve also found it helps lower the risk of long-term illness, protect cognitive health, boosts self-esteem and gives a sense of belonging.
As I said in my previous column, hugs are free! But so are laughs and fun!
In the words of motivational speaker and author Jim Rohn: “You are the average of the five people you spend the most time with.” … Eventually you start to think like they think and behave like they behave.
So, it might be wise to be intentional and choose those who lift us up, considering that our friends have influence over our decisions and that they can be a wonderful antidepressant.
With all the negativity going on in this world, its easy to hide out and not want to be around people. But you should be doing the opposite. I would urge you to accept that lunch invitation! Make memories, enjoy less loneliness and isolation, reduce some stress, and be comforted by emotional support.
Perform a self-assessment:
- Think about what are some of the ways you have reached out to an old friend or made a new one?
- Do you have someone you have not heard from in a while?
- Have you considered checking in on them?
- Have you made someone’s day and reach out and be well from head to soul?
One of the many ways I support my well-being is with the Well-Being Essentials Stack™ A stack of supplements with a holistic set of benefits to help you feel healthy and happy.
More info on the Well-Being Essentials Stack:
Being Well — Body, Mind, and Mood Whole well-being starts with a holistic approach. Supporting all aspects of your health— from your cells to your brain to your gut—is vital for a balanced body and mind that can meet the demands of everyday life. Protandim® Nrf2 Synergizer® helps activate your body’s natural ability to protect cells against free radicals caused by a modern lifestyle as it enhances your resilience to stress. Omega+ delivers cell-nourishing essential fatty acids that support cognitive function and mood. And ProBio replenishes beneficial microbes to your gut, a major communication center with your brain, to help keep you in balance
Senya Borrelli is a resident of Contra Costa County who is a wellness advocate and a distributor for LifeVantage. She is a wife, a mother, teacher and a coach. If you have any questions, you can email her at [email protected] .
For more information, visit her at www.activatewithsenya.com.
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