Strong social connections are as important as a balanced diet and physical activity.  It has even been linked to better physical and mental well-being.  

Nurturing meaningful relationships can positively impact your health in many ways.

Here are three of those ways:

1. Reducing stress levels
2. Boost your immune systems
3. Increase your longevity

Getting together with your family, friends, and community can promote overall mental health and well-being by providing:

1. Emotional support
2. A feeling of belonging
3. The ability to cope with life’s challenges more effectively
4. Lowering anxiety and depression

It can be quite easy to overlook the importance of these connections.  However, it is important to make time for them.

Here are some ideas to consider:

1. Face-to-face meetings
2. Phone calls
3. Online chats
4. Have a meal with a friend
5. Joining a club
6. Participating in community events

As you focus on eating right and staying active, remember to take time to build and maintain your social connections. Your health will thank you for it!

Here are three questions to consider:

Is there a family member or friend you haven't spoken to in quite a while?

Who brings you joy and how can you spend more time with them this week?

What community or social group have you been curious about joining, and what steps can you take to get involved?

I would love to hear from you.  What steps are you taking to build and nurture your social connections?
 

Share here
 

Love and blessings,

Coach Angela Schmidt