Invest in your friendships and social connections—they’re invaluable!
A lack of social connections can contribute to depression, low life satisfaction,
diminished self-esteem, poor health and well-being, negative emotions, and impaired
functioning in daily activities according to an article in BMC Geriatrics (O’Rourke et al.
2018)
Meaningful social interactions act as a shield against stress, offering emotional support
and cultivating a sense of belonging. Participating in shared activities, exchanging
experiences, and receiving validation and encouragement can reduce the negative
effects of life’s challenges on mental well-being. Additionally, strong social connections
strengthen emotional resilience, allowing individuals to recover more effectively from
adversity.
How can you maintain strong social connections?
Take hobbies to stay engaged in life :
- Club connections: book, drama, bridge, poetry,
- Community gardening
- Cooking classes
- Arts – Museum
- Outdoor walk
- Photography
- Choir singing
- Flower picking
- You can contribute your ideas to the list here:
Take up meaningful activities by :
- Becoming a tour guide of your city/neighbourhood
- Serving as a board member
- Mentoring students
- Organizing a community event
- Starting a charitable organization
- Doing voluntary work (e.g. Red Cross, patient organization, …)
- Cooking and serving food to homeless people
- You can contribute your ideas to the list here:
This year, I was truly inspired by a visit to a farm—but not just any farm. Although I
consider myself a true city person, I had been longing for an outdoor experience, one
that had long been on my "me-time" list. That day, no one was available to join me, but I was determined to attend a "flower picking" event.
As soon as I arrived at the parking area, I was pleasantly surprised to find myself
interacting with others who were there for a secret team-building activity. From the
moment I stepped in, I was warmly greeted by Félicie, the host, who gave me a tour of
the farm and introduced me to the various activities. I discovered a charming terrace
offering healthy snacks, where I met Félicie’s brother (Olivier the farmer) and sister
Aline who served a delicious, wholesome meal. I missed mother Sabine that day who is
doing a lot of flower workshops. There was also a small shop featuring local products
from new start-ups, which was heartwarming to see—entrepreneurs supporting each
other.
The whole experience left me feeling deeply relaxed and fulfilled. I returned home with a beautiful bouquet of flowers I had picked myself—with a little help from Félicie.
I will definitely return to this place where I felt a deep connection, both with nature and
the people around me.
We’d love to hear about the places or experiences where you’ve felt a true sense of
connection. Please share your stories with us!
Sources:
O’Rourke HM, Collins L, Sidani S. Interventions to address social connectedness and loneliness for older adults: a scoping review. BMC Geriatrics 2018;15(1):214
Info about the farm : Homepage | Boer Olivier
