ORLANDO, Fl. – Galentine’s Day is Feb. 13 and to celebrate it, we are exploring the importance of female friendships.
Whether she’s just a friend, your BFF, a gal pal, a comrade, your posse, or your tribe … when you’re a woman, having a close confidant can really make a difference in your emotional and physical well-being.
A Pew Research study found 38% of people have five or more close friends,18% had three close friends, and 8% had no close friends. And which category you fall into can really impact your health.
Studies reveal that it’s not the quantity, but the quality of friendships that lead to true happiness.
Research at Brigham Young University suggests that when women form close bonds, their brains release oxytocin, often referred to as the “bonding hormone” or “love hormone.” Oxytocin has been proven to lower blood pressure.
Studies also show women experience a release of serotonin during positive social interactions. This can positively impact focus, memory, happiness, and sleep.
Science also shows a healthy social life can reduce inflammation, help heal wounds, and boost longevity by 50%. But women who lack friendships have an increased risk of heart attack, stroke, and premature death.
This Galentine’s Day be sure to celebrate the women in your life.