Friendship Therapy

What is life without friends? Thanks to mine, I’ll never know. And thanks to technology – communication is so easy these days.

Friendship, research has found – is not just time-pass. It has major therapeutic benefits. Women are believed to go after close friendships, and these bonds carry unique benefits. 🙂 I would know!

So – here is a glimpse at what the power of friendships can do for you:

• Tough things become easy

There’s a power-cut.  You have six floors to climb. Do it with a friend – and it seems less strenuous than if you were to go it alone. If you are climbing with your best friend, it seems easier.

• Health issues don’t look so bad

If you have a serious health issue – and have a friendship network – you are four times less likely to die from the disease than if you had no friends at all. In fact – hang out with a group of  friends – and you will find that your blood pressure is lower and you are less depressed.
 

• Better stress management

When you feel stressed, if you are a woman, your brain releases oxytocin – a happy hormone – and you feel like bonding. (mens’ brains get affected by cortisol and adrenaline – which brings out that fight-or-flight response). Women can overcome stress through bonding. It is also why they outlive men.
 
These three benefits are good enough for me!

And thanks for the picture, Sodahead.