5 Reasons Why a Healthy Social Life is Key to Your Well Being

If your social life is lacking, it may be time to resuscitate it. Sure, it’s easy to think that we might be better off without having to deal with people or to exist in our own bubble, but there is scientific evidence that indicates the exact opposite is true. Studies show that regular, social interaction can positively affect our health.

A strong social life does not happen by chance. It requires a bit of nurturing on our part. It demands that we maintain high-quality, social interactions. Not sure what classifies as being high-quality? Think of high-quality interactions as being those events we commonly witness between close friends and relatives.

The more you engage with family and friends, on a positive level of course, the more likely you are to avoid some of the mishaps that we currently associate with isolation.

Here are five reasons you should invest in a healthy social life.

Improved Physical Health
Who knew that spending a little time with others could have such a positive effect on our physical health? That’s right! Social activity can help to boost your immune system and help to protect you from chronic events such as pain and illnesses.

Mental Wellness
Do not underestimate the importance of living in the shadow of good mental health. Your mental health is critical to your overall ability to navigate everyday life situations. According to one study, having healthy relationships can go a long way to boost your mood. What’s better than having a supportive network of friends who can provide the necessary support to get you through those difficult times.

Protects Us from Disability
A healthy social life protects us from disability. This aspect is particularly true for the aging population who may no longer have children in the home or perhaps have extended family who has since passed away.

Studies show that elderly who have frequent interaction with caring children and grandchildren have a positive experience and improved health. Some benefit more from having relationships that exist outside of the family.

Less Stress
There’s nothing like having a good friend or group of friends to raise your spirits and combat a stressful situation with at your side. The social aspect of having people in your life can also help to keep your stress levels down due to the release of various chemicals in the brain and throughout the body that naturally induce feelings of calm.

Improved Sleep Experience
A social life can help you sleep a bit easier through the night. According to a study from the University of Chicago, people who do not regularly engage with others are more likely to experience feelings of social isolation, restlessness, and disruptions.

How to Boost Your Social Interactions
If you are currently a loner and not sure where to start with boosting your social network, there are a few fundamental ways to get out and meet new people.
Volunteer

Volunteering your time is a great way to meet new people. Volunteering can assist in helping you to find a real purpose, enhance your self-confidence, combat depression and expose you to like-minded people or better yet, those who you might not have otherwise ever encountered in your everyday world.

Host Get-Togethers
Become the world’s most excellent host and open up your home or even invite your family and friends out to dinner. You have the opportunity to improve your social life by taking the lead in relationships and coordinating events that bring you in contact with others. You could host board game parties, movie nights, special sporting events or simply invite a friend over for tea.

Become Active in Your Church
If you are a church-goer, check out the various activities. From choir teams to community work to social bible groups, there are multiple ways to meet new people and boost your social interactions.

Online Communications
If you are not one to engage in the crowds, consider joining active online communities that center around your interests. You will find that there are thousands if not millions of people who have common interests that enjoy communicating and sharing their experiences with others and look forward to hearing from you.