In an attempt to stress less, especially during the holidays, we have put 31 stress-reduction tips to the test. For the next 31 days, we will offer a new tip each day. Too much cortisol, the stress hormone, can put you at risk for high blood pressure, heart disease, impaired mental performance, and even ab fat. So please join us and learn to stress less!
Tip No. 3: Spending time with girlfriends
Girls’ night out isn’t just fun—it produces a real stress-reducing response. “Hanging out with women friends increases prolactin levels,” says Christiane Northrup, M.D., author of Women’s Bodies, Women’s Wisdom (Bantam Books, 1998). “Prolactin is a bonding hormone that also decreases stress. With your friends, you can savor the chance to talk, laugh, and temporarily escape from your worries. Making time for friends doesn’t have to be difficult, and the variety of ways to spend time with friends is endless. Keep it simple with a movie night, a long hike, or a potluck meal. Round up friends for an evening of stargazing and s’mores in your backyard. Host a wine-tasting party at your house.
Jamie: I made a last-minute decision on Friday to drive to Nashville, Tennessee to visit my best friend for her 25th birthday. I not only got to experience the great shopping of Nashville, but I can't remember the last time I laughed so hard and so long.
Although my cheeks are sore and my sides feel tight from all the giggles, I feel no stress, no worrying.
Just relaxed.
The weekend has come to an end, and I'm not sad it's over. Instead I'm happy it took place. I'm re-energized for the week ahead.
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Source: Heart Healthy Living
