Galentine’s Day is fast approaching. Nope, not Valentine’s Day...Galentine's Day.
Whether you’re in a relationship or having a Hot Girl Winter, Galentine’s Day is the perfect take on the love holiday, and it could be argued that it makes us a bit healthier as well.
“There is a significant body of research that connects companionship and quality relationships with better health,” says Dr. Lubna Piracha, a cardiologist at Advocate Heart Institute at South Suburban Hospital in Hazel Crest, IL in an interview with the AHCHealthNews.com. “Meaningful friendships can reduce stress and prevent loneliness, for instance. February is full of romance, but clearly, love between friends shouldn’t be discounted.”
Here a few reasons why we think you need to get loose and hang with your girls this Valentine’s weekend.
1. It Can Help Soothe Heart-Hurting Loneliness
According to a study from 1979, researchers concluded that social-connectedness significantly cuts down on most health issues, specifically cardiac problems. A more recent study came to similar conclusions, showing that social isolation and loneliness may be tied to increased mortality.
Isolation can increase the risk of anxiety, depression or stress, each of which can negatively affect things like blood pressure.
2. Friends May Help Ease Depression
Depression is an increasingly prevalent problem in the US, affecting more than 15 million people at any given time, per the Anxiety and Depression Association of America. Research has also revealed that depression can be directly linked with heart disease and stroke.
Even more alarming, in a 2014 study, it was found that women with depression are twice as likely to be affected by heart disease. But, in brighter news, it has been found that more social connections can significantly cut down on this risk.
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3. Laughter Literally Makes You Feel Better
Children can actually model this evidence better than anyone. Research has claimed that children giggle hundreds of times every day, while the average adult only manages 3-5 laughs. Additionally, the American Heart Association (AHA) says that laughter is good for your cardiovascular health. The AHA cites studies that have shown laughter to increase “good” HDL cholesterol and reduce artery inflammation.
So this year, when planning your V-Day festivities, don’t forget your girls. Your heart will definitely thank you for it.
Jasmine Browley holds an MA in journalism from Columbia College Chicago, and has contributed to Ebony, Jet and MADE Magazine among others. So, clearly, she knows some stuff. Follow her digital journey @JasmineBrowley.
