Did you know that having close, platonic girlfriends can literally save a woman's life?

A UCLA study on women's friendships found that study participants who had the most friends throughout a nine-year period reduced their risk of death by nearly 60 percent.

The need for community with other women is built into our DNA, according to Shelly E. Taylor in her book The Tending Instinct.

Taylor also points out that while men who marry are more likely to live longer than those who don't, marriage doesn't seem to have the same effect on women.

There's not a notable difference between the lifespans of married women and single women—but women who have strong social ties with their girlfriends will statistically celebrate more birthdays than their loner counterparts.

So what does all of this mean for you?

It's time to dig the makeup bag out, take a shower and shave both legs, curl or straighten your locks (however the mood strikes you), grab your Jimmy Choos and get all your girlfriends together.

Let date night take a backseat and enjoy some quality girl time.

Hanging out with friends brings out a different side to your personality, maybe one you haven't seen in a while. Have dinner, grab a drink or two, maybe see a show.

Enjoy fun and easy conversations, even those as silly as gossiping about how hot Ryan Gosling looked at the Oscars or what happened last week on The Good Wife.

You'll be positively affecting your health and having a great time all at once. What could be better?

GNO Options in the Loop

The Pageant in University City is a great place to catch a show, then grab a fondue and drinks at The Melting Pot.

If weather permits, have some sangria at Bici Café on its seasonal patio.

If you want a more toned down evening, check out to Meshuggah Café and have a coffee and pastries.

And, of course, for a true Loop experience, enjoy a show and a burger at Blueberry Hill.