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Why A Friendship TodAy helps Keep The docTor AWAy

Enhancing WEllnEss articlE · OctObEr 2012

you live in a busy world. There are appointments to

keep, deadlines to meet, and the household to take

care of. When things get a little too hectic, it can

start to affect your sleep, eating habits, and overall

health. According to a recent study at Brigham young

University, the key to reducing stress and improving

your health might be found in your address book, not

the medicine cabinet.

The study claims that a stagnant social life can be as

harmful as smoking 15 cigarettes a day or being an

alcoholic. it also says that not having friends is twice

as detrimental to your health as obesity and worse

than not exercising.

While none of those things are good for your system

and hanging with your buddies won’t cure the flu,

looking for ways to include others more just might

add years to your life.

We all know that exercise is a great way to relieve

stress, but sometimes hitting the gym can be a little

intimidating. The key is to get a workout buddy to

join you. sweating off your stress is much easier when

you have someone there to help keep you moving.

The buddy system is also a great way to explore

the wild. enjoying the beauties of nature by hiking,

boating, swimming, climbing, biking, or just going for

a walk is not only relaxing but also a lot safer when

you’re among friends.

Working on hobbies with someone is another great

way to take your mind off the day-to-day grind. it

gives you a chance to focus your time and talent on

projects you enjoy with people you relate to.

Whatever you decide to do, whether it’s watching

movies, playing sports, or just getting together to

chat, friends can help you unwind when things

get tense. They motivate you to step outside of

your comfort zone in productive ways, encourage

you when you fall short of a goal, and celebrate all

the little victories along the way. exercise, laughter,

and a positive outlook can all help to reduce your

stress as well as add life to your years.