Feb 2024
A Unique Valentine's Tradition that could contribute to longevity
Valentine’s Day in Finland offers a unique twist: it's a celebration of friendship, known as 'Friends Day.' This tradition, focusing on platonic love, aligns beautifully with the findings of Susan Pinker's TED Talk, 'The Secret to Living Longer May Be Your Social Life.' In this article bridges the gap between a cultural practice and scientific evidence, showing how the Finnish emphasis on friendships can enlighten our professional interactions and personal wellbeing. Dive into a journey where cultural insights meet practical applications in our everyday lives.
One of my favourite things about Finland is the Finnish version of the Valentine’s Day. There Valentine’s Day is not dedicated to romantic gestures; instead, it is celebrated as Friends Day, a time to honor and appreciate the beauty of friendships. In a world often dominated by romantic notions, the Finnish way of celebrating Valentine’s Day offers a refreshing perspective and reminds us that the bonds of friendship are just as vital and deserving of celebration.
In Finland, this day is marked by exchanging heartfelt cards and tokens of appreciation with friends. It's a beautiful tradition that underscores the significance of non-romantic connections in our lives and extends expressions of foundness beyond romantic partners.
The Finnish Friends Day also reminds us that is important to cherish the moments with friends and take the time to connect, whether through a simple message or a coffee date. Do regular check-ins and share laughter. Investing time and effort in fostering meaningful bonds is key to a fulfilling and enduring friendship.
As we celebrate Valentine’s Day, we can also celebrate Friends day, embrace the importance of friendship, and cherish the unique connections that add warmth and color to our lives. Here's to the beauty of friendship – a love that knows no boundaries and stands the test of time.
The connection to longevity
In the TED Talk "The Secret to Living Longer May Be Your Social Life" by Susan Pinker, the focus is on the crucial role of social interactions and relationships in increasing longevity. Pinker highlights the intriguing case of Sardinia, Italy, where social connections contribute to longer life spans. This aligns with the spirit of Finland's Friendship Day, underscoring the importance of nurturing platonic relationships. Pinker's talk emphasizes that regular, face-to-face interactions and a strong social network are not just beneficial for our emotional well-being but also have a profound impact on our physical health and longevity. Her insights reinforce the value of celebrating and investing in friendships, as done in the Finnish tradition.
In an age where professional success is often measured by the breadth of our networks and the strength of our collaborations, the Finnish celebration of Friendship Day and Susan Pinker's TED Talk "The Secret to Living Longer May Be Your Social Life" offer invaluable lessons. These insights remind us that the fabric of our social lives, woven with the threads of genuine connections and meaningful interactions, is not just a personal treasure but a professional asset. From Finland's heartwarming tradition, we learn the importance of nurturing non-romantic relationships that enrich our work environment and foster team spirit. Pinker's research underscores this, revealing how robust social ties can enhance not only our emotional well-being but also our physical health and, by extension, our professional longevity. These perspectives invite us to look beyond conventional networking and see the power of authentic connections in building a more empathetic, collaborative, and culturally sensitive business world.
Article By
Jenni Pessi
