31 Oct Socializing Might Help with Your Better Health Goals. Here’s Why
Humans are considered to be social creatures. We are meant to be in a community, communicating with one another, coordinating activities. It only shows that sometimes isolation can do more harm than good to humans.
Aside from socializing being in our nature, it turns out that being surrounded with good people and socializing can have beneficial effects to your health.
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Socializing for Better Health
One 2021 research showed that social interaction and social connectedness have a greater influence on cognitive function as compared to those with lowest level of social connectedness and engagement.
Social connections also have a connection with good mental health. It can lower rates of anxiety, depression, and can cause higher self-esteem.
In addition, younger people who lack social relationships may also have higher risk of obesity, inflammation, and high blood pressure.
Building strong relationships can also help strengthen the immune system and promote longevity. Loneliness and isolation are related to chronic diseases and early death.
Meanwhile, older people who have managed to remain connected to other people have the following benefits:
- Enjoy quality life
- Lower chances of dementia and mental decline
- Need less domestic support
People who also have less social interaction may have sleep problems, may have too little exercise, and may have the tendency to drink too much.
How to Feel More Socially Engaged
It is easy to feel alone and isolated amidst the demands of our daily lives, especially if you do not make time to spend time with your loved ones.
You can do these things to feel more connected to people:
- Take a hobby or learn something new by enrolling in a class. You might meet new people that share the same interest as you.
- Schedule any time of your day dedicated to connecting with your family or friends.
- If you cannot meet your friends or loved ones, video call them or message them to talk to them.
- Stay physically active.
- Consider taking care of a pet. Pets can also help bring comfort and feelings of companionship.
- Be involved in a cause you believe
Make an effort to be more connected to the people that matter to you; such connectedness and closeness can benefit you in the long run, not only for your health but also for your personal life.
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