Many studies suggest that people who have social support and positive relationships have better mental health, physical health, improved cognitive skills, and longevity. Relationships help calm our stress-response system. Researchers discovered that safe and supportive social relationships keep our stress-response system in check and reduce levels of cortisol, a stress hormone.
Here are tips on how to nurture your relationships:
• Spend Time Together. Have fun together and experiment with new activities that you have been wanting to try. Take a class together or go on a day trip. As you grow older, relationships change, too. Spending time together is an opportunity to have a deeper understanding of each other.
• Stay In Touch. During these socially distanced times, it’s easy to feel isolated or alone. Take advantage of technology and find a way to communicate via an online platform or video call. If you prefer to talk on the phone, schedule a weekly phone call with your loved one.
• Be Comfortable with Yourself. The relationship you have with yourself is the key to happiness for all the relationships you build with loved ones and friends. When you are happy and fulfilled on your own, you attract the kind of people you want in your life.
• Celebrate Special Occasions. Sharing special times helps nurture relationships. Keep track of important dates and occasions and make plans to celebrate these dates, whether together or apart. During the pandemic, you can celebrate at home or virtually and still enjoy each other’s company.
Keep in mind that not every visit with your loved must be a special holiday or event. Spend time with your friends and family during the ordinary moments of your life. Many times, it’s the simple pleasures like taking a walk or listening to each other that mean the most.