Why we thrive with connection

How often do you interact with others?

I recently played a speedy card game, Snap, with my grandson. It reminded me of childhood experiences with laughter, sibling competitiveness, and family togetherness. From a young age, we look to others for connection, and this continues throughout our lives.

Psychologists have theorised that our relationships are as essential to survival as oxygen, food and water. Research has shown that we live happier and longer lives when we have positive connections with others.

I remind my clients that the most important relationship they have is with themselves, and I also emphasise the significance of healthy connections with others. Positive interactions impact all areas of Life Wellness: relational, emotional, physical, mindful, and spiritual.

What are the benefits of regular connection with others? 

1) Having fun together can activate a release of dopamine and serotonin in our brain; the hormones that support healthy wellbeing.

2) Physical touch by a trusted person (or pet) releases the ‘feel good’ hormones - oxytocin and endorphins -  which can lower stress levels and relieve pain.

3) Strong social connections boost our immune system and help stabilise mental health.

I often write about the health benefits of ‘happy hormones.’ Our bodies respond to our daily experiences at a cellular level. Activating these four key brain chemicals and hormones can boost our mood and well-being.

When do we not thrive with connection?

1) Unhealthy attachments. Toxic relationships, when respect, personal safety, and honesty are disregarded, are not connections to build upon.  Being clingy and demanding in relationships causes an imbalance in connection and is not beneficial to anyone.

2) Replacing conversation with text messaging. How many times have you sent or received a written message that was misunderstood? A voice conversation expresses tone and timbre and allows an instant response to clarify what has been said.

3) Dependence on AI communication. As mentioned in a previous article, AI platforms can be a useful source of information for building connections, but AI chatbots cannot replace real-life human interactions.

Connection with others affects who we are, and who we are affects how we connect.

How we connect with others is often influenced by how we feel about ourselves. Sometimes we need to choose differently to create positive interactions with people.

Connect with others.  Your wellbeing will thank you: mind, body and soul. Trish