After a fantastic weekend getaway with two girlfriends, it got me thinking how important it is to nurture close relationships with female friends.
Whether you are an extrovert who is constantly making new amazing friends or an introvert who has kept the same close small group since you were a child, I highly recommend taking the time to keep those friendships going.
I find myself in a season of life where work and kid schedules dictate pretty much everything I do. This doesn’t always lend itself to real time to connect with other adult women. My family spends plenty of time hanging out with other families where adults get to be together while the children play but it’s definitely not the same.
Spending quality adult only time with female friends is good for the soul – it ‘fills our cup’ and provides much needed time to feel heard and seen. But did you know research shows female friendships are also good for your health? One study reported that the female response to stress could be reduced after a release of oxytocin which came when surrounded by their female friends (Taylor et al. 2000). In another study, it was found that valuing friendships influenced better health among adults.
The article referenced below noted that women who are around their female friends see an increase in the release of the chemical serotonin, which helps control your mood and happiness.
If as you were reading this you agreed but then immediately thought to yourself, ‘ain’t nobody got time for that’, I urge you to reconsider.
Here are some tips for helping maintain female friendships, even when it feels like you don’t have time to do it.
1. Schedule phone calls. Driving and talking on the phone is a great way to stay connected and not have to use extra time. It is not the same as being in person but definitely better than nothing! Quick texts, Facebook, or Instagram DMs can help too! Do not underestimate the power of connection.
2. Lunch break dates. Whether it is a quick coffee run, walk around the block, or an actual lunch date, this is another way to use time when the kids may not be around.
3. Running errands. Recently a friend offered to come be with me while I did other stuff (like grocery shopping or taking the kids to a sport event). This is a great idea if you have friends who don’t have kids or have a more flexible schedule for any other reason . I had never thought of this until she asked!
4. Girls’ night in. Pick up your favorite take out, leave the kids at home, and show up at someone’s house after their kids went to bed. Easy and relaxing!
5. Planned outings. These are the hardest to do but so worth it. Whether it’s a night out in the town, a theater play, wellness retreat, spa day or weekend, or even just a mani/pedi, it’s definitely worth getting a partner, family member, or sitter to watch the kids while you share time with your girlfriend(s).
These are just some ideas. Get creative with how you want to connect with your friends and don’t forget to engage your partner to support you in these endeavors!
Happy Women’s History Month to all! Stay tuned for more WHM-related posts through March!
Reference
The Power of Making and Nurturing Female Friendships. https://www.flashpack.com/solo/relationships/making-nurturing-female-friendships/#:~:text=Female%20bonding%20and%20nurturing%20friendships,success%20in%20business%20and%20longevity.