The Forgotten Ingredient of Wellness...
Everywhere we look, we are told about the importance of healthy eating.
The media bombards us with info about losing weight, dieting, making better food choices..
We’re showered with info about how to exercise; about what supplements we should take; even about the importance of sleep.
But, there’s one super important ingredient for our wellness that is often forgotten…
Social Connection.
Ensuring that we have strong, healthy relationships with other people, is not just a ‘nice to have’. It’s vital for our health!
Studies have consistently shown that a lack of social connection can increase your risk of premature death, from all causes. We now know that strong social connections significantly impact our overall health.
Strong social connections can also help to:
Lower stress levels and anxiety,
Increase self-esteem, and
Improve quality of life.
At bodyBEgood, we realised long ago that our studio is not ‘just’ a place for people to do Pilates... It became evident really early on that our studio provides a beautiful space for
Seeds of friendships to bloom,
Social connections to deepen, and
Someone’s mood and outlook for their entire day become so much brighter.
How can you enhance your social connections?
If you’re aware that the ‘social health’ could do with some improvement, here’s some tips:
Prioritise it!
How often do we postpone that catch up, because there’s just ‘too much’ on?
How often do we put everything else, before that long overdue coffee with a friend?
Change your mindset to prioritise your social ‘exercise’ as being just as important as your physical exercise!
Try something new
If Pilates is not your thing, what else do you have an interest in?
Gardening? Food? Bushwalking?
Whatever it is, our town has a huge amount to offer, with many groups designed to connect people with common interests.
Jump on Google or Facebook, and connect yourself with a group who share your interests.
Be a good listener
If you’re nervous about meeting new people, or putting yourself out there, the best thing to do is work on your listening skills!
Have a few good questions up your sleeve for when you meet someone new, throw them into the conversation, and actively listen to what people have to say.
People feel seen and valued when they’re actually listened to, and this is where friendships can flourish!
This week in particular, the importance of social connection, and beautiful friendships, has felt more important than ever in our studio.
As we move forwards into a new week, I really encourage you to take a moment to reflect on your ‘social health’, and set yourself 1 little goal to improve your social connections this week.