Friendship is the best medicine, says a recent study published in the Experimental Social Psychology. Women who have close friends—and make time to meet them— have lower risk for high blood pressure, dementia, and depression.
So doctors say, go out and bond with your girlfriends! And you don’t have to spend a lot, either. Here are great money-saving tips for your next girl bonding session. In fact, most of the ideas here are absolutely free!
Money saving tip # 1: shop in each other’s closets
Only another female friend would understand why you desperately need another pair of shoes. But instead of hitting the boutiques, why don’t you organize a Clothes Swap? You’ve all got tons of clothes and accessories hiding at the back of your closet. Maybe they don’t fit, or they’re not your style anymore. In any case, they’re taking up valuable closet space.
Just send an invite to all your friends, asking them to bring their old stuff too. Now, ready, get set—and raid each other’s stash! All of you go home with a brand new wardrobe, without spending a single cent.
Money saving tip # 2: workout together
Skip the overpriced gym membership fees. You and your friends can just exercise together. You can jog or walk together (those miles feel much shorter when you’re talking!) or meet up in each other’s houses and try the latest workout DVD’s (if you share videos, you can try a variety of routines at a fraction of the cost!).
Studies also show that women who have ‘exercise buddies’ are more likely to stick to a weight loss program. It’s more fun, and the friendly competition is just as effective as paying a personal trainer to breathe down your neck.
Money saving tip # 3: shop at a farmer’s market
You can talk, laugh and gossip as you wander through the stalls and fill your baskets with fresh, organic produce. It’s a great way to enjoy the fresh air and make a usual errand (food shopping) extra fun and special.
Money saving tip # 4: Wine and Cheese
Why spend a ridiculous amount of money on overpriced bar drinks? Buy wine and cheese and just hang out at home. You can play fun board games like Taboo or charades, watch DVD’s, or play the Wii.
Money saving tip # 5: Start a book club
Read our article on how to start a book club! It’s a great way to meet up with friends and catch up on your reading. Plus, talking about a book may help you discover a side to your friends you never knew before.
Photo from thedcam.com