Social Wellness is the Key to a Healthy Lifestyle - AdvantageCare

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When we think about wellness we normally think about eating right, exercising, and maybe keeping our mind healthy too using mindfulness, meditation or other practices. But, part of being healthy means having healthy relationships with others. We need to build and cultivate a family and support system, not only so we have people to help us during tough times, but because sociability is important for our overall wellbeing. This is where Social Wellness comes in.

What is Social Wellness? “Social wellness refers to the relation-ships we have and how we interact with others. Our relationships can offer support during difficult times. Social wellness involves building healthy, nurturing and supportive relationships as well as fostering a genuine connection with those around you,” according to the University of California, Davis.

Why is it so Important Today? The positive effects of developing and maintaining healthy relationships are endless. People who are socially well enjoy huge health benefits and might even live longer. According to mhnews.org, “Social isolation or having few social contacts has significant health implications on one’s overall health”. Research has shown that:

  • The health risks of isolation are comparable with smoking, high blood pressure and obesity.
  • The heart and blood pressure of people who have positive relationships respond better to stress.
  • A strong social network is associated with a healthier endocrine system and healthier cardiovascular functioning.
  • A healthy social life can enhance the immune system’s ability to fight off infectious diseases.

AdvantageCare Health Center has three strategies to improve your social health. Head to their website for more ways to make your social health a priority: 

https://advantagecaredtc.org/social-wellness/

 

Written By: AdvantageCare Health Centers

Authored by: La Shae