The daily grind can be exhilarating, especially when you’re passionate about your work.
Spending time with family is also a cornerstone of many people’s lives.
But don’t underestimate the power of a little “me” time for keeping your mental health in check.
Interestingly, a growing body of research is highlighting the importance of a close-knit circle of girlfriends for a long and joyful life.
The Harvard Women’s Health blog has shed light on the fact that social connections don’t just bring us joy; they’re as vital to our long-term health as getting enough sleep, eating well, and avoiding cigarettes.
It’s been found that those with stronger social bonds are generally happier, face fewer health problems, and even tend to live longer.
So, what’s the science behind this?
It’s a mix of biological and behavioral factors.
Being disconnected from your girlfriends can lead to harmful stress levels, which can harm your arteries, digestion, insulin regulation, and immune response.
If you need more convincing, psychologists have discovered a fascinating correlation: a person’s social network size can be predicted by their pain tolerance.
This suggests that friendships and strong bonds do more than just make us feel good—they help us endure life’s painful moments.
There’s also new evidence suggesting that hanging out with friends boosts the production of oxytocin, a hormone that promotes feelings of happiness and belonging.
Higher levels of oxytocin make people more trusting, generous, and sociable.
While social media can help maintain connections, it’s the actual face-to-face time with people who make you feel good that brings the health benefits of friendship.
Psychologist William Chopik from Michigan State University has some advice: “Keeping a few really good friends around can make a world of difference for our health and well-being. So, it’s smart to invest in the friendships that make you happiest.”
This seems like the perfect justification for planning a girl’s getaway.
Forbes has reported that women who use their vacation time experience less stress, depression, and fatigue.
They also tend to be happier with their marital relationships.
Travel is crucial—it’s not about taking a day off for errands, but about exploring new places.
Women who don’t travel, even if it’s just to a new area of their city, face a higher risk of heart disease and related mortality.
While men also benefit from travel, women, particularly when traveling with close friends, seem to gain more.
It might be tough to step away from family or spousal responsibilities, but it’s worth noting that women who take trips with their friends tend to be happier overall, including with their home and family life.
It could be more than just a break—it could be essential for your well-being.
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