Its time to re-enter the community
Our health has suffered from the lack of connections and it's time to reconnect!! CVD19 is on its way out and we have a lot to grieve. Loss has riddled most of 2020 and 2021. However, as we come out of this time of grief from all the loss we also need to lean into the need for the community!! IT’S TIME TO RECONNECT!!
Kindness and support improve more than our mood
Since the early months of 2020, family gatherings, getting together with friends, and participating in special religious, community, and workplace activities have not held their usual place in our lives. Such occasions are an opportunity to check in with each other, exchange ideas, and perhaps lend some social support to each other.
Social connections like these not only give us pleasure, they also influence our long-term health in ways every bit as powerful as adequate sleep, a good diet, and not smoking. Dozens of studies have shown that people who have social support from family, friends, and their community are happier, have fewer health problems, and live longer.
Easy health enhancer
Scientists are investigating the biological and behavioral factors that account for the health benefits of connecting with others. For example, they've found that it helps relieve harmful levels of stress, which can adversely affect coronary arteries, gut function, insulin regulation, and the immune system. Another line of research suggests that caring behaviors trigger the release of stress-reducing hormones.
Research has also identified a range of activities that qualify as social support, from offers of help or advice to expressions of affection. In addition, evidence suggests that the life-enhancing effects of social support extend to the giver as well as to the receiver.
All of this is encouraging news because caring involvement with others may be one of the easiest health strategies to access. It's inexpensive, it requires no special equipment or regimen, and we can engage in it in many ways.
Cultivating your social support network
If you want to improve your health and your ability to combat stress, surround yourself with at least a few good friends and confidants. Here are some ideas for building your social network:
Volunteer. Pick a cause that's important to you and get involved. You're sure to meet others who share similar interests and values.
Join a gym or fitness group. Incorporating physical fitness into your day is an important part of a healthy lifestyle. You can make friends while you exercise. Look at gyms in your area or check a local community center.
Take a class. A local college or community education course puts you in contact with others who share similar hobbies or pursuits.
Look online. Social networking sites can help you stay connected with friends and family. Many good sites exist for people going through stressful times, such as chronic illness, loss of a loved one, a new baby, divorce, and other life changes. Be sure to stick to reputable sites, and be cautious about arranging in-person meetings.
Give and take: The foundation of social networks
A successful relationship is a two-way street that requires your active participation. Here are some suggestions for nurturing your relationships:
Stay in touch. Answering phone calls, returning emails and reciprocating invitations let people know you care.
Don't compete. Be happy instead of jealous when your friends succeed.
Be a good listener. Listen when your friends are speaking. Find out what's important to them.
Don't overdo it. Be careful not to overwhelm friends and family with phone calls and emails. Save those high-demand times for when you really need them.
Appreciate your friends and family. Take time to say thank you and express how important they are to you.
Give back. Be available for family and friends when they need support.
Taking the time to build a social support network is a wise investment not only in your mental well-being, but also in your physical health and longevity. Start making more friends or improving the relationships you already have. Whether you're the one getting the support or the one doling out the encouragement, you'll reap rewards.
