In Sam & Ade Go Birding, a new series on C5, actor Samuel West (a keen birdwatcher) invites actor/comedian Ade Edmondson (a complete birding novice) to join him on his travels and introduces him to some of the UK’s most beautiful birds and natural habitats.

On the way, they discover that the calming locations and the peaceful nature of bird watching make conversation flow easily, and they find themselves reflecting on life, bereavement, careers, and friendship.

Their interactions serve as a reminder of how important it is to get out into nature and do something that provides a complete antidote to the hustle and bustle of our daily lives.

What resonated with me in the first episode was the conversation about friendship: Sam invited Ade to join him, and Ade replied positively within 20 minutes. They are new friends at an age when they perhaps didn’t expect to make new ones. Sam is 59, and Ade is 69. They enjoy their time together birdwatching and relish the quiet space that allows them to share a companionable peace. One is the knowledgeable enthusiast (Sam), and the other (Ade) is the bemused newcomer, enthralled by this new pastime and bringing humour to proceedings.

Friendship is something that can, at times, feel complex and seeing this programme with Ade saying he enjoys spending time with his new “matey” is something very special.

In our practice, Steve and I frequently encourage our clients to share with their friends what they hope to achieve with hypnotherapy, in order to get that extra layer of support.

Friendship is a two-way street.  It’s about understanding and being understood.  It’s about having someone who celebrates your successes and stands beside you when life is more challenging.  It is often said that the only way to have a good friend is to be one.

As we age, we may not see friends as often as we used to.  This may be because some of us are still working, while others have retired.  Some have commitments to grandchildren, while others may have moved away, which can create feelings of melancholy and unease.  It is, therefore, important to maintain connections and be open to making new friends, because having friends has a positive impact on our physical and mental health and helps prevent feelings of isolation and loneliness.

There is a natural ebb and flow to friendships as we go through the different stages of life.  Our friendship circle changes as a result, and some friendships cannot carry on as before.

Like Sam and Ade, it can be a wonderful bonus to meet a new friend when we least expect it, and this really can happen at any age.

How Hypnotherapy can help with friendships and relationships

Hypnotherapy is an empowering and restorative therapy – a safe place where you can feel listened to.  We can help you understand your relationship needs, improve existing friendships through better communication, and take positive steps toward making new connections.

So, if any of this resonates with you, do get in touch with us for a free 15-minute phone call and then, if you’d like to try a session, we can book you in for an online appointment.