Lifestyles

Girlfriends Are Good For Your Health

Posted: 9/7/2010

For your next girlfriend get-together, mix up some Berry Sangria using Seagram's Escapes.

(NAPSI)-There's something to be said for the power of girlfriends and the unique bonds between women that only women understand. On a bad day, your girlfriends always have your back.

Oftentimes, though, women struggle to balance work and play and they push their friendships to the side. Experts say that's a big mistake. Beyond the feel-good effects of spending time with the girls, statistics show the critical importance of having lasting friendships.

• A UCLA study found friends help you live longer. Scientists observed that the more close friends we have, the less likely we are to suffer from chronic diseases, accidents, and psychological impairments.

• Friends are good for the heart and soul. They can help reduce the effects of stress on the body, protect against illness, and help us heal when we do get sick.

"Women connect and create friendships through celebrations. Grab your BFFs and celebrate any time of year with a girls' night in or spa day," said Debba Haupert of Girlfriendology.com, an online community for women.

The "girlfriend" experts at Seagram's Escapes suggest planning a special night on August 1--National Girlfriends Day--or during September--National Women's Friendship month. Call up some friends, mix up delicious drinks with Seagram's Escapes and create memories to cherish on your long, healthy journey ahead.

Watermelon Martini

• One 11.2-oz. bottle Seagram's Escapes Jamaican Me Happy
• 4 oz. watermelon vodka
• Splash of lime juice
• Shake with ice and strain.
• Garnish with a lemon slice.
• Serves 2.

Berry Sangria

• One 11.2-oz. bottle Seagram's Escapes Wild Berries
• 1 bottle of red wine (like Merlot)
• ½ cup triple sec
• ½ cup lemon juice
• 2 cups lemon-lime soda, chilled
• 1 cup raspberries
• 1 cup sliced strawberries
• 1 cup blueberries
• Lemon slices

Combine the first 4 ingredients. Cover pitcher and refrigerate until chilled.

Just before serving, stir in soda and fruit.

Serves 12.

For information and recipes, visit www.seagramsescapes.com or www.facebook.com/seagramsescapes.