ALL YOU NEED IS … FRIENDS

Not every profound relationship we encounter in our lives will necessarily be romantic. Love can take many forms, one of which is platonic love like the deeply rooted love and connection we have with our bffs! Research shows 81% of women over 18 consider friendships as important to them as romantic relationships.

Platonic love gets much less attention when it comes to discussing the most important connections of our lives, but these platonic relationships are arguably some of the most meaningful. Platonic love is a type of love that is distinctly nonsexual and nonromantic while still being deep, close, and meaningful. Beyond a simple friendship, platonic love describes a bond that's defined by heartfelt connection, intimacy, and care.

The term platonic references the ancient Greek philosopher Plato, whose work theorized about the nature of love and its highest forms. Plato's work conceptualized the most enlightened types of love as transcending beyond the body in favor of love for the soul and the love of wisdom. Because of this, the idea of platonic love became associated with having a strong, emotionally intimate connection that goes beyond sexuality and romance.

As the adage goes, no one gets through life alone. There’s no doubt friendships enrich our lives, but the fact is that we're also hardwired to seek out these connections—and for good reason. Research shows that we are social beings born to be connected with others. As the benefits of friendship continue to be studied, findings indicate that having strong female friendships helps give women an edge in many categories, from health and longevity to a more prosperous career.

Spending time with your girls is like a hug to your nervous system, female friendships are essential for health, longevity, and success. Women thrive on strong relationships with our girlfriends. These friendships give women an outlet to share their problems, thoughts, feelings, and triumphs with those they feel a close bond with.

81% of women over 18 consider friendships as important to them as romantic relationships.

I am a New Yorker, my nearest and dearest friends live in various different states across the country and I am grateful for every conversation in every time zone! As a single woman, I feel so lucky to be able to experience the joys of platonic relationships with my girlfriends and my boy-friends too! Everyone has a warm and fuzzy place in my life and they all get to experience the fullness of my heart and depth of friendship.

Platonic relationships are unique as they often endure longer and can provide a stable foundation for individuals, sometimes outlasting romantic relationships. These friendships so often offer consistent support, understanding, and companionship over time - in my case decades and sometimes hold space for the emotional needs that may not be met by romantic relationships alone. Friends often provide comfort, empathy, and a sense of belonging that can be equally or even more satisfying than romantic love.

“Some women pray for their daughters to marry good husbands. I pray that my girls will find girlfriends half as loyal and true as the Ya-Yas.” — Rebecca Wells

Platonic relationships are often built on shared interests, hobbies, or values, fostering deep connections based on mutual understanding and compatibility. These connections can be incredibly fulfilling and may take precedence over romantic relationships that lack similar compatibility. Unlike romantic relationships, platonic relationships leave room for greater independence and autonomy. Friends support each other's personal growth and development without the added pressures or expectations often associated with romantic partnerships.

When I get together, we share hilarious stories about our sex lives, our annoying colleagues and family drama. I rely on my friends more than brunch dates and manicure dates. We are there to care for each other in times of need. I am thinking specifically about my dear friend who collected me from my colonoscopy or another friend who I collected from surgery after he broke his ankle. New York is not an easy place to be single but when you have good friends we know that we will survive this crazy thing called life.

While romantic relationships hold significance for most people, platonic love is equally as important. No matter your age or even your relationship status, treasure your friendships for as long as possible, because healthy friendships play a major role in your life and your overall health.