The last time we read a ‘research study’ that could be hailed as our favourite, it claimed that women consider female friendships more important than their significant others. But *this* recent study trumps our list, because it basically supports and encourages our plans going out on an all girl vacation! This just makes our plans for hitting South France beaches seem more necessary. Science backed it, so it must be legit! Right?
The study says that taking an occasional mini-break with your girlfriends has a positive impact on physical and mental health. It backs it up with valid reasons and proofs – in case you’re questioning the study’s credibility. The study claims that occasional trips boost real friendships, which help in extending one’s life expectancy, reduce the risk of heart disease and even increase our pain threshold. It also says spending quality time with friends has a strong link to boost in oxycontin – the feel-good binding hormone.
This is not the first time studies have conducted research on long-term friendships and relationships. Stable relationships have always had a strong link to overall health and happiness, with friendships superseding that of relationships with family members.
A group of researchers from Harvard also found that not having strong friendships can make a person more prone to depression, a decline in cognitive health and morbidly enough, an early death.
"Social connections like these do not only give us pleasure, they also influence our long-term health in ways every bit as powerful as adequate sleep, a good diet and not smoking," explained Harvard Researchers.
We’ve said what we said. It’s time you take action. Book those flight tickets already.
