Friendships are vital to our health and well-being. Researchers at Michigan State University analyzed responses from over 270, 000 people in nearly 100 countries and concluded that as we age, friendships are more influential than family ties in their effect on our health and happiness. Other studies have found that our immune systems and longevity benefit from strong social ties. And yet we don’t have anything like a user manual for something so important—and fragile. Bonds forged over decades can This story is from Kinfolk Issue Thirty-Four Buy Now Related Stories Arts & Culture Issue 42 The Language of Home How weird words forge new friendships. Arts & Culture Issue 17 Lean on Me Respect, admiration and trust are qualities that we look for in compatriots. The spark arising when two people bond can be unexpected and exciting. Arts & Culture Issue 45 Yoga with Adriene The internet’s best friend is—finally—finding her own flow. Arts & Culture Garden Issue 45 Piet Oudolf The Dutch designer bringing life—and death—to traditional gardens. Arts & Culture Issue 45 Thomas MacDonell The conservationist transforming the Highlands. Arts & Culture Design Issue 45 The New Craftsmen From the Outer Hebrides to central London, Catherine Lock is celebrating the crafts heritage of Great Britain.
Arts & Culture Issue 17 Lean on Me Respect, admiration and trust are qualities that we look for in compatriots. The spark arising when two people bond can be unexpected and exciting.
Arts & Culture Issue 45 Yoga with Adriene The internet’s best friend is—finally—finding her own flow.
Arts & Culture Garden Issue 45 Piet Oudolf The Dutch designer bringing life—and death—to traditional gardens.
Arts & Culture Design Issue 45 The New Craftsmen From the Outer Hebrides to central London, Catherine Lock is celebrating the crafts heritage of Great Britain.
