In a recent class lead by the Head of Psychiatry at Stanford University on the mind-body connection and the relationship between stress and disease, he said that one of the best things
a man could do for his health is to be married.
For women? One of the best things we can do for our long term health is is nurture friendships with other women.
Women, studies show, connect with each other in a way that creates powerful support systems that carry us through stressful times. While men tend to relate by actively doing something- and may talk a bit along the way, women verbally connect and the doing is secondary. Those very strong bonds form a deep sense of well being and belonging...stress reducers.
We've all seen this in action many times without needing any study (you could have saved a lot of money, Stanford. Next time, just ask a woman; then, take our word for it!)
A girlfriend has a health scare, and the circle gathers. Without asking, we go with her to Dr visits for an extra ear and support, sit with her in chemo treatments, make a dinner circle for family meals and schedule overnight caretakers in the hospital at night during recovery. No words needed, or non-stop gab fest, the comfort of a presence unasked for is so healing.
A sudden death? Word travels, cleaning crews materialize to clean her home, a hive of worker bees quietly do what we should be done without direction so our friend can do what she must. Calls, hugs, again food for guests and family, schedules amongst one another to be there for her after the activity winds down...
This is Not a man bash. Men are just hard-wired differently. And, thank goodness for that!
But, the next time you feel a twinge of guilt for taking time from family to meet your girlfriend for shoe shopping. or have lunch with your college roommate rather than Pilates class, know that it is good for your long-term health. And, if you have lost touch with women, reach out! You are not wasting time...It is good for your health and even better for Hers!
Besides women tend to live longer than men....our girlfriends are our lifesavers. Choose your "Golden Girls" early and hold them close.
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