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The obvious benefits of being social are having fun and being part of a community. Humans are designed to be social creatures and live in groups depending on one another emotionally, physically, and in other important ways. What you may not have considered are the unexpected health benefits of being social.

Being social affects your mental and your physical health. That means to the same degree you develop a happy social life, no matter your age, you can expect to experience better health. 

Your happy social life increases your mood

Our moods are reactive to many things. Chemicals in our bodies, shifts in hormones, or other physiological goings on affect our mood. Additionally, our day-to-day activities affect our mood. The more social we are and the more positive and happy things we have to look forward to, the better our mood.

Have you ever woken up on the wrong side of the bed and felt destined to have a bad day only to encounter a great friend for a cup of coffee and feel better? This is an example of how having a healthy and happy social life can increase our mood.

Your happy social life can restore your memory

Dementia or loss of cognitive function is a worry for anyone middle-aged and older. An under stimulated mind is at risk for memory loss or loss of cognitive ability. The good news is, developing a happy social life can actually restore memory and cognition. Finding fun ways to be social and stimulate your mind and your enthusiasm not only prevents memory issues but may restore them.

Your happy social life could prevent a stroke

Believe it or not, hanging out with friends could prevent a stoke. That’s because being isolated and lonely can increase inflammation and blood pressure. Left in a high state of stress or anxiety, people are at greater risk for stroke, heart attack or other life-threatening issues. Hanging out with friends two to three times per week or engaging in a social activity that brings you joy can help you reduce your blood pressure and ease inflammation giving your body the healthy boost it needs.

There is much more to being social than having a good time. Being social can help you be healthier and live longer. Making healthy social activities part of your daily routine is an excellent way to stay healthy while you have fun.