Community and connection – we are social beings and need to interact with others.
Make building social connections a priority. We are at heart pack animals who thrive in the company of others. Studies have shown that older people with at least one close friend have younger cardiovascular systems, healthier stress hormone blood profiles, and actually get less colds! People with a larger circle of friends do even better.
In other studies, larger social circles equated to greater longevity. Having a companion dog showed lower deaths from cardiac problems.
Social networking using Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn is a also a great way to expand your horizons beyond your local area. I’ve re-connected with long lost friends and business associates who are now located across the country. Just be alert about who you choose to “friend” or “follow”. I strongly believe in quality over quantity. Too many connections mean lower quality interactions. Every minute counts and we want to spend those minutes in a meaningful way.
In other words, connect, connect, connect!
