Have you heard? The research is in, and science says it is GOOD for your mental health to go take a trip with your girlfriends.
The last time I took a girls trip was…. well, close to 15 years ago. Writing that sounds insane!
Since the moment I met my husband, trips have turned into couples trips only. Don’t get me wrong, I love those and haven’t wanted it any other way. But getting away with a good group of friends is actually good for you.
Why Are Girl Trips Good For You?
It all comes down to connection and loneliness. Sure, you might be surrounded by people everyday, but do you feel really connected to them?
This study explained that the absence of social connections carried the same health risk as smoking up to 15 cigarettes a day. That is so scary to me!
Social isolation increases likelihood of mortality. Getting away with friends is a great way to combat that. Reconnect. Take a breather. Feel connected.
Especially as an introverted person (one who really thrives on being alone and doesn’t love being in big groups of people for long) I have to be careful.
We feel connected with our friends because we know what they’re doing all the time; we text and follow along on FB and Instagram. But that is not real connection.
If you can’t get away for a weekend (hello, busy moms!) try to schedule out time you can go meet in person for coffee or lunch. Plan a hike. Meet at a park for a 20 minute chat! It can be easier than you think.
Here’s the thing… there’s a lot that we know is good for us and we don’t always do it. I’m not a fan of kale and avocado even though it’s healthy . BUT, I am a fan of my friends. That’s something I can get behind.
Make some time for connection and you will be happier and live longer. Science says so!
Liz is a just a mom trying to keep it real about how little she sleeps, how often she gets puked on and how much she loves them. You can find her here every day writing about real-mom moments.
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