HEALTHY MIND

Necessary By Julie Maddock

Girl's trips are a powerful thing. They can make you feel happier, stronger, connected and appreciated. Even planning and anticipating the trip triggers euphoria—you crave the hours you'll spend laughing, talking, venting and unwinding with those who know you best. What we girls have known all along—that a weekend getaway with your best friends is good for your mental and physical health—is backed by science. According to an article by Harvard Health Publishing (Harvard Medical School), the health benefits of connecting with others can "relieve harmful levels of stress,

WHY GIRLS TRIPS ARE which can adversely affect coronary arteries, gut function, insulin regulation, and the immune system." The article also referenced a study that examined the data collected from more than 309,000 people, which found "that a lack of strong relationships increased the risk of premature death from all causes by 50%." Yikes! The message is clear: We need, deserve and thrive when we build and nurture strong connections to others. And a girl's trip is the perfect way to do that! The Mental Benefits Taking a vacation—even a short one—improves your mood, reduces stress and alleviates anxiety. Doing so with close friends provides an extra dose of relaxation, laughter and new memories. When we're with our girl squad, we feel safe: they get us, we get them and there's no judgment. It's a free pass to be yourself and be accepted. This exchange provides a boost to our mental health and emotional well-being. Spending time with those we love increases oxytocin levels—that's the hormone responsible for making you feel happy and content.

Your tribe speaks a special language: girl talk. It can lift a load from your shoulders, inspire you to think creatively and build your confidence. Your girls keep it real, helping you to see yourself—the good and the bad— realistically. And you end up burning scores of calories from laughing so hard you cry. By the end of the trip, you are so filled with happiness it is literally seeping from your pores.

So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and gather up the girls—it's just what the doctor prescribed!

We need, deserve and thrive when we build and nurture strong connections to others.