Asha Parekh, Waheeda Rehman, and Helen spotted vacationing together in Srinagar; why going on a holiday with long-term friends is good for health

Bollywood’s beloved ‘Golden Girls’ — Asha Parekh, Waheeda Rehman, and Helen — are making headlines once again, not for their cinematic achievements, but for their enduring friendship. 

The iconic trio, whose collective careers span decades of Indian cinema, were spotted enjoying a vacation together in the picturesque city of Srinagar. Their getaway serves as a heartwarming reminder of the importance of maintaining long-term friendships, especially as we age. 

Mental health benefits of vacationing with long-term friends

Sohini Rohra, mental health advocate and counselling psychologist, says, “Spending time with friends, within happy and meaningful comfort zones is extremely fulfilling. It fulfils the heart, mind and body. It also prevents isolation and offers companionship which is an inherent need in human beings.” 

Feeling a sense of belongingness and purpose increases self worth, she adds. Having the support to deal with trauma can increase pain threshold automatically reducing cortisol and fear. Just as low-quality friendships can lead to chronic illnesses both mentally and physically, strong trustworthy bonds lead to happier and more confident lives.

Being in a familiar and trusted company helps lower stress levels. Friends often know how to make each other laugh and can provide a sense of stability and reassurance. The shared laughter and joy during a vacation act as a powerful antidote to stress.

Manyyaa Adlakkha, life coach and founder, Vastu Guru Manyyaa, agrees. She says, “Shared positive experiences, such as exploring new places, trying new activities, or simply reminiscing about the past, can boost overall happiness. These shared moments create lasting memories and enhance the sense of belonging and connection.”

Impact on physical health

According to Adlakkha, the reduction in stress from being in the company of close friends can directly impact physical health. “Lower stress levels are associated with reduced blood pressure, which is beneficial for heart health.”

Shared positive experiences, such as exploring new places, trying new activities, or simply reminiscing about the past, can boost overall happiness. (Source: Freepik)

Positive social interactions, she says, have been shown to boost the immune system. The emotional support and reduced stress levels can enhance the body’s ability to fight off illnesses.

“Through the ups and downs of life we may experience loneliness and the stressors associated with the feeling of loneliness can increase our cortisol levels leading to severe mental and physical health conditions. Strong friendships provide a safety, support and non-judgemental space releasing happy hormones like oxytocin which in-turn elicits anti-stress responses,” says Rohra. 

Contribution to overall well-being and life satisfaction

Relationships have a certain pressure to it, says Rohra. However healthy the relationship stressors are unavoidable. Our friendships on the other hand have the ability to provide the benefits of a relationship without the complexities that come with intimacy and/or responsibilities.  

She states, “Taking a vacation with our friends bridges the gap that adulting inevitably causes, strengthens the relationship, recreates a feeling of bonding, instils laughter and unabashed communication, exploration, excitement and so on. This shared experience of unadulterated happiness elicits oxytocin and anti-stressors which have a non-negotiable positive impact on our body and mind.”

Particular activities or types of vacations that are especially beneficial

Adlakkha recommends activities such as hiking, camping, or kayaking, which can be particularly beneficial. “These activities promote physical health through exercise and mental health through the calming effects of nature.”

Vacations that involve exploring new cultures, attending workshops, or visiting historical sites can be intellectually stimulating and emotionally fulfilling. Learning together and engaging in new cultural experiences strengthen cognitive functions and deepen friendships.

Spa getaways, beach vacations, or wellness retreats offer relaxation and rejuvenation. These trips are ideal for reducing stress, promoting relaxation, and enhancing mental clarity, Adlakkha notes.

However, Rohra believes that “anything may work.” Whether it is a hike, a cooking experience, beaches, snow, road trips, spas, jungle safaris or lazy afternoons in a hotel room. “There is no one size fits all in terms of vacation choices but the one most likely sure shot result will be the arrival of happiness, confidence, excitement and overall well being.”

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