Move over, Valentine’s – Galentine’s Day is here to remind us that friendship might just be the greatest love of all! You may or may not have heard of the fairly new unofficial holiday Galentine’s day. Founded by fictional character Leslie Knope in US sitcom Parks and Recreation, it has become widely recognised as a “fake” holiday. Fake or not, is there ever a bad time to celebrate your friendships or platonic relationships?
After all, friendships can have a profound impact on both mental and physical wellbeing. One study led by Yale University found that you share strains of your microbiome with the people you interact with socially.1https://www.nature.com/articles/s41586-024-08222-1
What the science says
A ground breaking UCLA study found that women respond to stress differently to men. We have a “tend and befriend” stress response. Rather than the typical fight-or-flight response, women often seek out social support and nurturing connections to reduce stress and promote wellbeing. The research highlights the powerful effects of strong female friendships and the importance of community and connection for women’s health.
The research suggests that women with close friendships or strong social circles are more likely to experience reduced anxiety, lower stress levels, improved resilience, overall better mental health and wellbeing, and even increased longevity. Not only can your friendships be meaningful and fulfilling but they can also be beneficial for your health, all the more reason to celebrate these friendships.2https://womensbrainhealth.org/think-tank/think-twice/ucla-study-on-friendship-among-women
Check out these 4 tips to nourish those important friendships:
Treat your friends and your gut bugs to something yummy this Galentine’s Day with our Valentine’s Breakfast and Chocolate Brownies.
Any questions? Contact one of our Nutritional Therapists via live chat, weekdays from 8 am to 8 pm.
References
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