I think this is fascinating news. It begins to shine a light on what we intuitively know: We are not just bones and tissue, but body, mind and spirit, and health and happiness are intertwined. According to author Emma Seppala, “Social connection improves physical health and mental and emotional well-being. We all think we know how to take good care of ourselves: eat your veggies, work out and try to get enough sleep. But how many of us know that social connection is just as critical?”
She continues, “One landmark study showed that lack of social connection is a greater detriment to health than obesity, smoking, and high blood pressure.
On the other hand, strong social connection:
- Leads to a 50% increased chance of longevity.
- Strengthens your immune system (research by Steve Cole shows that genes impacted by loneliness also code for immune function and inflammation.)
- Helps you recover from disease faster.
- May even lengthen your life!
People who feel more connected to others have lower levels of anxiety and depression. Moreover, studies show they also have higher self-esteem, greater empathy for others, are more trusting and cooperative and, as a consequence, others are more open to trusting and cooperating with them. In other words, social connectedness generates a positive feedback loop of social, emotional, and physical well-being.”
If you are interested in learning more check out her website here.
Even our addictions have root in our quality of connections and purpose. Watch this Ted Talk: Everything you think you know about addiction is wrong.
Check out our Happy Go Lucky Girl’s free JOY Calendar and review the March/Connections section here for how to improve your social connectivity a little each day.
What are your favorite ways of increasing your feelings of connectedness?
(Aspiring to be a) Joy Spreader
