The Power of Sisterhood: Investing in the Friendships That NOURISH Us

In the whirlwind of life, it's easy to get caught up in the day-to-day and neglect our personal connections, particularly the nurturing bonds of female friendship. 

A few things happened this week that sparked this thought. 1) I started the week with a group of women who shared their tears as they talked about feeling isolated and shared their pain as they talked about not having a support network. 2) Midweek, I was on the tube and a beautiful young woman got on. She wore an elegant designer dress, with her hair in an up-do, like she was going somewhere fancy. As she stood in the  carriage, I watched a group of three friends - around the young woman's age, looking her up and down, subtly gesturing and making comments to each other. Luckily the young woman who was the object of this attention was oblivious, but it stuck with me. 3) I ended the week with a spa trip with three of my oldest and closest friends.

These three things got me thinking about the power of our female friendships, the importance of a support network and the sanctity of sisterhood. 

Strong connections with people who lift you up, make you feel seen and heard, and support you are so important. Cultivating 'sisterly' bonds with like-hearted women is proven to improve your holistic health - mind, body and spirit.

Good friendships = better physical health. Studies have shown that strong social connections can contribute to a longer lifespan and a reduced risk of various health issues. The support network that close female friendships provide can act as a buffer against stress, which we know has detrimental effects on our cardiovascular health, immune system, and sleep patterns. Having trusted 'sisters' to share with can lower blood pressure and reduce the likelihood of chronic diseases.

Good friendships = better mental health. When life feels like a struggle, our female friends offer a sanctuary of understanding and empathy. They provide a safe space to voice our vulnerabilities, anxieties, and frustrations without fear of judgment. This emotional offloading is crucial for managing stress, reducing feelings of isolation, and fostering a sense of belonging.

The simple act of spending quality time with your people releases oxytocin, often referred to as the "love hormone." This neurochemical promotes feelings of bonding, trust, and relaxation, counteracting the effects of stress hormones like cortisol. These moments of connection aren't just feel-good experiences; they are actively contributing to our emotional regulation.

Investing in our female friendships, this idea of 'finding your tribe' is essential for our holistic wellbeing. These bonds provide a lifeline of support, joy, and understanding that enriches our lives in countless ways, positively impacting our physical and mental health. So, take the time to nurture these vital connections. Reach out to your people, plan that coffee date, go for that walk, and allow yourselves to bask in the unbreakable power of sisterhood. Your mind, body, and soul will thank you for it!