Wonderful Friends

I feel very fortunate people to have some very special girlfriends in my life. In my fifties, I have discovered that I much prefer authenticity and connection over quantity. Their friendship plays a powerful and underestimated role in my overall health and wellbeing. Over the last few months, I have discovered my friendships are not just a luxury — they are an essential part of my life! Whether I am laughing over coffee or a glass of wine with them or we are supporting each other

through life’s storms, those connections nourish my mind, body, and soul. They all at some point have “checked in with me,” sometimes hourly, daily or weekly when the storms have hit. They don’t require that I respond immediately, and they don’t judge me if I only respond with an emoji.

Research consistently links strong social connections to better mental and physical health. However, in midlife, friendships can also help reduce those feelings of loneliness, heightened anxiety, boost immune function, and even increase lifespan. So, please, nurture your friendships, even if it is you who is always the one that gets in touch or organises things, because it's not just about having someone to laugh or cry with — friendships can contribute to living a longer, healthier, and more fulfilled life.

Whether it’s retirement, menopause, becoming a grandparent, or caring for elderly parents, sharing these experiences with your friends brings comfort and valuable perspective and we all need these things!