As women age their vast group of girlfriends becomes a more close knit group of friends. It’s important to have at least one strong female friendship. The dynamic between female friends as opposed to friends of the opposite sex is totally different. In this case, it’s about quality versus quantity. This Sunday is National Women’s Friendship Day. So let’s discuss the importance of female friendships and celebrate the strong, beautiful women in our lives!

Here are my favorite things about girlfriends.

You have someone you can talk to and relate to. Sure, you can chat with your guy friends about beer and football, but do they want to hear that your period is three days late? Absolutely not. In fact they don’t want to hear about your period, ever. Sometimes you just need someone to vent to about girl issues, or to assure you that everything is going to be OK. Guys don’t go through a lot of stuff that women do, so they can’t relate. Plus, a good girlfriend is someone you can share your deepest, darkest secrets with.

They offer real advice. Guys don’t want to hear about your breakup, or maybe they do because they are excited. Maybe they’ve always seen you as more than just a friend. Face it, they probably aren’t going to give you the best advice when it comes to dating or how to get your ex back. Most women have been there so they can offer helpful tips.

Even if you don’t talk to each other for a while, it’s like you never missed a beat. You can pick up right where you left off. Reminisce on old times, or have fun creating new memories. Sending a quick text to check in every once in a while is more than enough to show you still value their friendship.

She encourages you to be the best version of yourself. Sure, she invites you to grab mimosas for brunch, but only after hitting a killer spin class. She truly cares about your physical and mental well-being. She knows that getting out and venting over eggs Benedict is just as important as getting in a good sweat session.

They have your back. Let’s face it, people can be mean, and some like to talk trash. Your bestie will always stand up for you. Having someone who loves and supports you can help others see you in a different light.

She cares about you and your self-esteem. How many times have you tried on a dress, looked and your friend and said “Ugh, I look fat.” If you’re like me this has probably happened a thousand times. But how many times has she looked at you and responded, “You’re right.” ZERO. A good friend is there to lift you up and tell you you’re beautiful. Even if it may not be the right dress for you, she offers words of encouragement instead of cutting you down. That’s what friends are for.

She likes to do girly things. Have you ever just had the urge to get up and dance? As much as we wish they did, most guys don’t like to dance. But that can be easily solved if you have a strong group of girls who support you. Grab your girlfriends and dance your heart out. It’s good for your body and your soul.

They help to relieve stress. Sometimes you just need to go out and do something fun to get your mind off of the stress of everyday life. And a good girl friend knows just how to get you laughing and having fun.

Having strong friendships and relationships are important. Now pick up the phone and thank the women in your life!

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