As an introvert who cherishes meaningful connections, I have always sought solace in intimate conversations rather than the clamor of large social gatherings. While I have long appreciated the presence of the women in my life, I have recently rediscovered the profound reliance I have on them. Whether it's seeking comfort during the aftermath of a breakup, navigating the uncertainties of life post-college, or simply sharing lighthearted memes and profiles of adorable orange cats on social media, my girlfriends have evolved into pillars of unwavering strength. With their support, I have not only survived but thrived.
What's even more remarkable is that I am not alone in experiencing the power of female friendships. Last August, a poignant moment unfolded at my grandmother's funeral. It was truly moving to witness a diverse group of women, spanning across generations, gathering together to pay their respects. Despite their differing ages, they were united by an unbreakable bond—a deep love for my grandmother. After the service, numerous women approached my family to express their heartfelt affection and gratitude for the profound conversations they had shared with her over the years.
This touching display of love and connection exemplified the significance of female friendships in our lives. It reinforced the idea that these bonds transcend age and time, fostering a sense of unity and support that knows no boundaries. It was a testament to the strength of these relationships and the profound impact they can have on our well-being. A few weeks ago, I came across a video of Jane Fonda where she highlights the root of what I’ve been feeling–
"Women's friendships are very different from men's friendships. And they're very important to our health. Because you guys, you kind of sit side by side and watch sports or cars or women," she said on CBS Sunday Morning. “Women sit facing each other eye to eye, and they say, 'I'm in trouble. I need you. Can you help me?' We are not afraid of being vulnerable."
There is truth to Fonda’s statement.
A recent study, featured in eNeuro, has provided valuable insights into the impact of eye contact on the social brain and its role in fostering empathy. The research revealed that eye contact simultaneously activates corresponding areas of the brain in both individuals involved. Specifically, the study found that eye contact engages the cerebellum, which plays a role in predicting the sensory outcomes of our actions. It triggers the limbic system which is known for its involvement in emotions and plays a crucial role in our ability to recognize and share emotions, thereby serving as a foundation for empathy.
In essence, both Jane Fonda's observations and the study on eye contact and the social brain converge to emphasize the significance of face-to-face interactions in female friendships. The act of sitting eye-to-eye not only fosters vulnerability but also activates brain regions involved in empathy and emotional understanding. This dynamic nature of female friendships, characterized by open communication and emotional connection, contributes to the unique and valuable role these friendships play in women's lives.
In comparison to men, women possess a heightened innate need for interpersonal connections. Alisa Ruby Bash, PsyD, LMFT, affirms that fostering and maintaining these bonds triggers the release of serotonin and oxytocin, often referred to as the "bonding hormone." Studies conducted at prestigious institutions such as Stanford and UCLA further support these findings, indicating that women not only experience a surge of adrenaline during times of stress but also a surge of oxytocin. This surge motivates women to engage in the instinctual behavior known as "tend and befriend," characterized by a desire to protect their children and establish connections with other women. This deeply rooted pattern of social bonding traces back to the earliest stages of society when women would gather together for communal support while men ventured out to hunt and safeguard the village.
Female friendships hold immense power in our lives. They provide solace, understanding, and unwavering support that transcend age, time, and societal expectations. Grounded in vulnerability, open communication, and emotional connection, these friendships play a unique and invaluable role for women. Scientific evidence further underscores their significance, demonstrating the release of bonding hormones and the instinctual nature of female social bonding. As we navigate the demands of our lives, let us cherish and cultivate these authentic connections. By recognizing and nurturing the strength of our female friendships, we create a community that uplifts, empowers, and sustains us. In a world often focused on superficial interactions, let us celebrate the depth and authenticity found in these bonds. Together, we can forge a path of genuine understanding, compassion, and lifelong connections!
Comentarios