ORLANDO, FL (Ivanhoe Newswire) — Galentine’s day is February 13th and to celebrate it, we are exploring the importance of female friendships. Whether she’s just a friend, your BFF, a gal pal, 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 wellbeing.
A Pew Research study found 38 percent of people have five or more close friends,18 percent had three close friends, and eight percent had no close friends. And which category you fall into can really impact your health. Research at Brigham Young University suggests that when women form close bonds, the brain releases 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 percent. 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. Female friendships
Studies also reveal that it’s not the quantity, but the quality of friendships that lead to true happiness.
Sources:
https://womensbrainhealth.org/think-tank/think-twice/ucla-study-on-friendship-among-women
Contributors to this news report include: Adahlia Thomas, Producer; Bob Walko, Editor.
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