BUILD A HEALTHY MOAI
Did you know that having a social support network of loyal friends is good for your well-being and may add more healthy years to your life? Okinawans maintain strong social connections by regularly spending time with their moais – groups of lifelong friends. A “moai” or “hui” offers the support and security of knowing someone will always be there for you, especially in times of need.
Residents living in the original Blue Zones® areas share common principles called the Power 9®—these are healthy lifestyle habits that help them live longer, healthier, happier lives. Social connectedness is a common thread for people living in the world’s Blue Zones areas.
GROW A GARDEN OF FRIENDS
Friends don’t just grow on trees. They have to be carefully cultivated to bloom and grow. Studies indicate women tend to have more intimate relationships than men. When they need to meet new people or engage in conversation, women are more likely to approach someone than men. But this doesn’t mean that men don’t know how to make friends. Men and women just have different ways of building their relationships with others. Women tend to get together to share their feelings, while men, on the other hand, tend to “do” things together to generate friendships. No matter how you build your relationships, healthy friendships have a profound, positive impact on everyone involved.
Nurture Healthy Friendships
Good friends can pick you up when you are feeling blue, and vice versa. Sometimes just a simple phone call, e-mail, or text message from a friend can brighten your day.
Friends provide more than good times, memories, and companionship – they also share habits. Did you know that if your friends have healthy habits, you are more likely to adopt these same traits? If your friends are obese, you are three times more likely to gain weight as well. Nourish friendships with people who will support your healthy habits, challenge you mentally, and be there for you when you’re in need.
Maintain and nurture your friendships by showing sincere care and interest in them. Establish a regular time to meet with members of your inner circle, whether it’s just to talk, share a meal, or take a walk. It’s good for your well-being!
Be willing to try different activities that will put you in contact with new people – they may develop into good friends. Look for people who are positive and upbeat, and who make you feel good about yourself and will accept you for who you are.
