Why Social Connections Can Be the Best Medicine

By Andrew Ward

Did you know that hanging out with friends and family isn’t just good fun but also good for your health?

Don’t take our word for it. Take the scientists’ findings from hundreds of research studies that have examined the impact of social interaction on mental health, physical health and overall wellness. Many of these studies have concluded that humans are social animals that reap numerous benefits when interacting with loved ones. These benefits have been reported in humans of all ages. 

But some still deprioritize time with friends and family. We implore you to see social interaction as something other than a luxury or something you can put off. Instead, see it as an essential part of your health and well-being. 

You owe it to yourself to stay connected and even meet some new people from time to time. Read on to learn why every day is the perfect time to be social, the science behind it and why Wynk is the ideal social lubricant for any weeknight hang. 

What Socializing Does For The Brain and Body

We need socializing now more than ever. We understand that it isn’t coming easy for everyone. Unfortunately, the required social isolation of the pandemic converged with a chronically overscheduled feeling afterward. As such, today’s generation is more likely than ever to skip the so-called “indulgence” of socializing throughout the week. 

That shouldn’t be the case. Socializing is only an indulgence if a negative consequence comes attached. Often, that consequence tends to be the drawbacks of alcohol–a social lubricant millions of Americans turn to in social situations. The drawbacks are warranted, but only if choosing an indulgent, often detrimental option. There are alternatives worth considering. Find what works for you because the benefits of social interaction will be felt long after the night concludes.

Improved memory and cognitive skills

Various studies have shown that connecting with people improves our minds in multiple ways. An active social life can preserve your memory and cognitive skills. Studies have found that seniors significantly benefit from staying social compared to more isolated older individuals. Research from Ohio State University built off those results in their mice-based study. Their research found that having more extensive social networks can positively influence brains as they age. Additional studies found that seniors saw improved cognitive abilities after several days of daily interaction. 

Mood enhancer

Numerous studies connect social interaction with improved happiness. Relationships are fundamental to some of our strongest emotions. These reactions often help fight off feelings of anxiety, depression and loneliness. Modern research confirms decades of studies and conclusions about happiness and social interaction. Studies have found that close relationships are key to our happiness and that we often turn to social situations when we feel down. Scientists also suggest that short periods alone can be beneficial, but only when balanced with a robust social network.

Better physical health

In some studies, socializing has been considered more effective for our well-being than exercising. Other studies have confirmed the physical benefits of healthy social interaction. Scientists concluded that when people engage in quality interactions, they are more likely to experience positive physical symptoms. Additional studies have supported these findings, adding that socializing can help physically and mentally during times of compromised health. 

You may even live longer

Some studies suggest that you live longer with healthy social interaction. Blue Zones, the parts of the world where people outlive global life expectancies, are of a particular interest. Research in these regions, like Sardinia, concluded that putting family first, celebrating elders and laughing with friends all played a part in reducing stress, fighting off heart disease and Alzherimer’s and living longer. Recent studies support research that began decades ago, including an examination starting in 1965, which found that people with strong social connections were three times less likely to die over nine years of study. 

Quality Social Time with a Wynk of THC

All of this research supports why it’s such great timing that cannabis is becoming a part of mainstream culture. Cannabis plays a beneficial role, allowing many folks to pause the hamster wheel of daily stress and engage in some social wellness–leaving you feeling recharged and ready to take on tomorrow. 

Among the range of cannabis options, there’s no better choice for a recharge than a refreshing seltzer with just a Wynk of THC. It’s just what’s needed for a balanced, light and social buzz that you could use any night of the week.

Find out for yourself today with WYNK’s line of infused seltzers, including Lime Twist, Black Cherry Fizz and Juicy Mango.

Andrew Ward is a Brooklyn, NY based freelance journalist and copywriter. Some of Andrew’s notable publications and clients include High Times, Benzinga, Business Insider, Rolling Stone and many more.