Our hypothesis stands true! Friendship is the best cardio.

Here at The Friendship Factory, our hearts are happiest when we are with the people we love, like our best friends! Friends make life lighter and brighter with their warmth and encouragement. Since the dawn of humanity, humans have seeked friendship for safety, comfort, and unity. When we laugh and play with friends, we feel a rush of giddiness, and all those feel-good chemicals boost our mental and physical health.

The Friendship Factory’s Sparkle Squad is in the business of building friendships.

But did you know that friendship scientifically protects our hearts? In a study published by Annals of Behavioral Medicine, research concluded that a lack of socialization increases risks for negative health consequences, specifically in the way our hearts function. Positive social experiences provide a pathway for more stable heart function and improved heart rates. Other serious health conditions such as diabetes, substance abuse, and depression are also vastly decreased when we maintain a close circle of friends. Why is this? There are so many reasons!

A true friend supports us through life’s ups and downs, which builds our confidence and sense of self-worth. They’re our emotional support squad, lending listening ears while we vent and offering tight hugs. Sometimes all we have to do is talk our thoughts and feelings out to a friend, and instantly, we feel better. A good friend lowers stress and anxiety, providing us with a happier and healthier mind, body, and spirit.

When we spend time with our friends, we are reminded of who we are at our core and how we want to shape our dreams for the future. A good pal keeps us on the right path in life, and what a better way to walk that road than with the people who make our hearts do a happy dance!

At The Friendship Factory, we like to show our appreciation for friends by crafting together. Sometimes we chatter away about everything we can think of, and sometimes we sit quietly enjoying each other’s company. How do you like to show your friends that you care? Whichever way you choose, by keeping up with your friends, you’re building a happy and healthy heart to support you all your days through. And you’re building your pals’ hearts stronger, too! We can’t think of a better gift!