For our brains to feel the rewards of socialising, we need to interact with others and experience facial expressions, vocal tones, body language, and other social cues. But in today's online world, this is not always possible. Social media platforms can be isolating, causing anxiety and loneliness.
Research shows that people who are isolated have higher levels of cortisol and inflammation, which can lead to serious health problems. On the other hand, when we interact with others, our brains release oxytocin, dopamine, and serotonin, chemicals that promote feelings of well-being, happiness, and calmness.
However, getting socialising right is not easy. Our brains have an inbuilt bias against it - people tend to underestimate their own social skills and overestimate how much others like them. Additionally, the internet can hinder our ability to form meaningful connections with others.
So, what can we do? First and foremost, we need to upgrade our interactions. If texting or calling just isn't enough, let's make an effort to video call or meet up in person whenever possible. This way, we can experience social cues that help our brains feel the rewards of socialising.
Furthermore, getting a dog can have similar effects on our brains, releasing oxytocin and lowering cortisol levels. And while exercise is great for physical health, socialising has the potential to be just as beneficial for mental wellbeing.
Ultimately, socialising is not about looking good or achieving some sort of external validation; it's about connecting with others and forming meaningful relationships that can positively impact our lives. By making an effort to be social, we may find ourselves feeling happier, healthier, and more connected - both to others and to the world around us.
Research shows that people who are isolated have higher levels of cortisol and inflammation, which can lead to serious health problems. On the other hand, when we interact with others, our brains release oxytocin, dopamine, and serotonin, chemicals that promote feelings of well-being, happiness, and calmness.
However, getting socialising right is not easy. Our brains have an inbuilt bias against it - people tend to underestimate their own social skills and overestimate how much others like them. Additionally, the internet can hinder our ability to form meaningful connections with others.
So, what can we do? First and foremost, we need to upgrade our interactions. If texting or calling just isn't enough, let's make an effort to video call or meet up in person whenever possible. This way, we can experience social cues that help our brains feel the rewards of socialising.
Furthermore, getting a dog can have similar effects on our brains, releasing oxytocin and lowering cortisol levels. And while exercise is great for physical health, socialising has the potential to be just as beneficial for mental wellbeing.
Ultimately, socialising is not about looking good or achieving some sort of external validation; it's about connecting with others and forming meaningful relationships that can positively impact our lives. By making an effort to be social, we may find ourselves feeling happier, healthier, and more connected - both to others and to the world around us.
We've all been there, stuck in front of our screens for hours on end, feeling like we're missing out on human connection. But it's not just about having a dog or exercise, although those things are awesome too 
. I mean, have you ever noticed how even when you're Facetiming with your friends, it's not the same as being there in person? You can't pick up on all the subtle cues that show us we're being heard and understood. And don't even get me started on social media 
... it's like, yeah, I'm connected to my friends online, but is anyone really connecting with me on a deeper level? 
. We need that human interaction to release all those good chemicals in our brains. And you're right, it's not just about looking good or achieving external validation; it's about forming meaningful relationships and feeling connected to others 
. So, yeah, let's make an effort to upgrade our interactions and get out there and connect with people! 
. Like, I've been noticing this too with my mates and family - when we all get together and hang out, it's like a weight's lifted off our shoulders 
. And yeah, it's easy to say that, but sometimes it feels like the internet's got us feeling isolated 
. But you're right, we need to make an effort to upgrade our interactions - video calls, meetups, all that jazz 
. I've even been thinking of getting a dog, because let's be real, who doesn't love spending time with their furry friends 
? It's not just about physical health either; mental wellbeing is so important too 
.
, leaving us feeling dry 
. We need face-to-face interactions 
. But it's hard when everyone's behind a screen 
. On the other hand, socializing makes us feel all good vibes 
.
. Our brains can be like, "Yeah, I've got this 
." But really, we don't 
. And with online life, it's hard to form those meaningful connections 
, but socializing can do the same for our minds 
. It's not about looking good or getting likes 
. It's about being real with others and feeling connected 
.
. I mean, sure social media can be a great way to stay in touch, but it's just not the same as having an actual conversation with someone 
it's like, what even is the point of having billions of followers if you can't even have a real convo with them? 
anywayz, i'm so down for video calls & in-person meetups - let's make socializing a priority