Why Not Tweet to Your Health

by JCC Association

With today’s handy mobile devices and social media networks, connecting with others is becoming easier to do and enhancing our well-being. 

Translated, this means we’re feeling good about ourselves and the world around us – aka, enjoying life!

When we connect with others in a positive way, reactions take place between our minds and bodies. Our physiology reacts to what our eyes are seeing, our ears are hearing, and our heart is feeling, prompting our minds to produce positive thoughts and feelings based on these positive bodily experiences.

This is also works in the reverse direction: when the mind thinks positive thoughts, our physiology responds with less tension, lower heart rate and blood pressure, and “feel-good” hormones.

The benefits of connecting with others include:

·       A heightened sense of well-being

·       A high level of bodily functioning

·       Increased feelings of happiness, security, confidence

·       Increased emotional health through sharing with others

·       Increased sense of self-worth and purpose

Ways to connect:

·       Take time to give time: Take five minutes or fifty- depending on your schedule- and give your full attention to someone you care about. It’s a meaningful (and free) gift you can give. 

·       Quality time: Arrange to spend time sharing experiences with people you care about. You’ll create memories in the process!

·       Turn it off: Switch off the digital displays and play a game with the children, or just catch up with one another.

·       Make someone’s day: Smile or wave at someone whether you know them or not. It may just be what they need and it costs you nothing except a little courage!

·       Reach out and touch someone: Visit a friend or family member who needs support or company.

·       Lend a helping hand: Volunteer in your community or participate in local events. You’ll help those around you and expand your connections.

Social networks are not just about the influence others have on us, but also about the effects we have on others. Get connected today!

Sources:  National Health Services (http://www.nhs.uk), Abstract: Pleasure and Emotion: An investigation of Physiological Responses Emerged by Pleasant Stimuli, International Association of Societies of Design Research, 2009.