5 FRIEND ACTIVITIES THAT LEVEL UP YOUR ENERGY
Recharge and connect, no matter where you are.
– KEYS SOULCARE
Never underestimate the power of a long-lasting friendship. Not only do these unshakable bonds give us the power to understand a new perspective, but they also allow us to learn more about ourselves. But, like all good things in life, friendships need to be nurtured.
To help, check out five ways you can amp up the good vibes and make the most out of your friendships — IRL or online.
DEEPER CONVERSATIONS
Science tells us that having more in-depth discussions is good for your health. Even if you can’t imagine running out of things to talk about with your bestie, conversation starters (and deepeners) are wonderful ways to cultivate more intimate connections. Conversation decks from Girls Gone Happy and Actually Curious can be used to share out loud, over Zoom, or at a gathering to guide convos without the pressure. (Goodbye, small talk!) Oh, and did we mention they’re great journaling prompts and inspo for writing letters to loved ones from afar?
GET OUTSIDE
Getting outdoors works wonders for our minds and bodies — but, like most things, it’s even better when surrounded by your squad. Even better? There’s more than one way to enjoy this awe-inspiring (and budget-friendly!) pastime. Call a long-distance or desk-bound buddy to pass the time, meet up for lunch in a local park, or go big with a weekend camping trip. Whatever you decide, your body and mind will thank you.
COOK TOGETHER
Fewer things say love like a home-cooked meal, and who better to chow down with than a few of your faves? Whether you’re having a cooking night on FaceTime or splitting chopping duties in your kitchen, meal making is a perfect way to chill and nourish yourself — and the ones you love. Dust off that cookbook you’ve been meaning to check out or indulge in some one-pot YouTube recipes — no matter how you do it, soulcare is sure to follow.
UNLEASH YOUR INNER CHILD
The older we get, the less we play — but playtime is essential to our hearts, creativity, and joy. With feel-good endorphins that help us relax and find peace in ourselves, why not spread the love of play with our peeps? Tapping into our inner child is a great place to start. Have a self-guided paint night, create a scavenger hunt for your city (near or far), or play a throwback game you haven’t tried in ages (hopscotch, anyone?). Giving ourselves and our friends a chance to live out a childhood dream, memory, or feeling can be as healing as it is hilarious. So, don’t be shy: honor your inner child and see where it leads you.
PAL-CATIONS
#Baecations are cute and all, but some of our favorite soul-deep connections are platonic; traveling is just way better with loved ones by our sides. Not only can you pay a friend a visit or check something off your bucket list, you can also take part in one of the most life-changing experiences without having to fill them in on it later! Shameless selfies and endless memories across familiar or unfamiliar lands offer us so much, all while allowing us to be more fearless in good company. So grab a friend, a planner, and whatever inspo you need to make the most of your next escapade.
What are your favorite ways to connect with pals? What are you trying on our list? Share in the comments!