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Various studies have found that friendships are good for our mental and physical health. For example, spending time with friends can uplift your mood, reducing stress and anxiety.
Despite this, getting in some much-needed quality time is hard if your friend doesn’t live in the same town or city as you, meaning in-person catch-ups aren’t always possible. Distance can also make it difficult to maintain the closeness you’ve spent years building - but it does not have to.
With that in mind, here are some easy ways to stay connected to your long-distance bestie so that you can continue to enjoy the many benefits your relationship brings!
Make time in your routine for each other.
Instead of saying, “Let’s catch up soon,” every few days on rotation, try setting aside a set time each week or month to call your friend. This ensures that you both carve out some time in your schedule to dedicate to a video call, meaning you’re more likely to stick to this routine and spend some (virtual) quality time together.
Binge-watch your favorite shows together.
Technological advances mean that you no longer have to be in the same room as your friend to watch the same TV series and films! As a result, you could plan a virtual date with your friend in order to binge-watch the latest Netflix series, especially if this is something you’ve watched together in the past. (Note: the new series of Bridgerton is on its way).
Click here if you’d like to find out how to watch netflix with friends. Don’t forget the popcorn!
Be sure to ask plenty of questions.
It's normal to want to share as many stories about your life and what you have been up to as possible when hopping on a call with your friend. However, you must also listen as much as you talk! Don’t forget to ask your friend about how their day went and what they have been up to as well! This will help you to maintain a strong relationship, no matter how many miles may be between you.
Send each other care packages.
Sending a small gift your friend's way is a great way to let them know that you’re thinking of them - and you don’t necessarily need to break the bank to bring a smile to their face. For example, if they’re a big reader, you could send them one of your favourite books in the post, starting your own book club while doing so!
Plan your next meet-up.
While you may not be able to meet up in person as often as you’d like, you can spend time discussing your next meet-up. After all, this gives you both something to look forward to, whether you are visiting them in their hometown or planning a vacation. Be sure to discuss budgets beforehand so that you are both on the same page. This ensures that you both have fun without putting unnecessary financial pressure on each other!
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