There are many ways of practicing the language: reading books, watching films, listening to radio programs, songs and there is hardly anything effective than communicating with native speakers. When I say communication I mean not only talking in person but also corresponding with him or her by Internet. Such an activity has become very popular only at the end of the 20th century. Such people are called pen pals. This kind of practicing the language is called active.
Being pen pals can be very useful, first of all for enlarging your outlook and gives you a good chance to have an idea about this or that country, and also for updating a lexicon and, naturally, for development of your own skills of written speech and art of dialogue with people (especially with representatives of other culture and people with a bit different way of perceiving the world). It is the best way to get to know the world.
The main disadvantage of being pen pals is the time difference! But still it's ok if you live in Russia and your friend in Europe. You will read the letters quickly and will get immediate answers.
So if you want to become pen pals with people from other countries and to practice your language you are welcome!