Building strong personal relationships can have a positive affect on your mental and physical health.

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When life gets busy, we may neglect our friendships and relationships. But research has shown that the single most important predictor of happiness and a long life is having strong relationships. Health measures like heart rate and blood pressure can even improve with positive social interactions.

Building a strong network of friends and supporters takes time and dedication, but it is achievable. Just like our other Small Steps for Better Health, let’s break it down and make it simple and sustainable. Here are some ideas to get you started. Pick one and act today.

• Think of a friend you haven’t seen in a while. Take a few moments to send a text message or make a phone call to check in with them and schedule a time to get together if you can. It can be as simple as meeting for a coffee or lunch, going for a walk together or even riding together to run your errands.
• Try to keep social interactions positive, by asking questions about the other person’s life, actively listening, and showing empathy.
• Be flexible, supportive, and excited when others share what is going on in their lives with you.
• Go to a local sports event, music performance, art gallery or cooking class where you can meet new people.
• Attend a community event like a parade or walk.
• If you are a member of a spiritual or religious group, attend available services this week. Churches and religious groups often have many ways you can get involved and spend time with others.

Make it a goal to incorporate any of the above into your weekly routine. Prioritize your relationships and social network – it will go a long way in improving your physical and mental health.

Small Steps, Better Health

Every two weeks we will introduce another Small Step for Better Health. Follow us on social media for more tips, and sign up for our email newsletter, True North.