Why Connection is so important to our Wellbeing

Running is obviously a solo sport but as I learnt when I doing it professionally connection with others plays a vital role in maintaining our mental health and overall well-being but in order for me to connect with others honestly and openly I had to first being with the connection with myself.

Human beings are inherently social creatures, wired to seek out and form connections with others. These connections fulfill various psychological needs and contribute to our sense of belonging, identity, and purpose. For me whilst I knew I had to run my own race having a team around me that got me and could pick me up on my tough days was as vital as having people to celebrate the wins with.

These days connection with others is just as vital to my wellbeing and I think even when we are independent, no man is an island and we are wise to remember that there is always someone out there that will hear us no matter what.

Here's why I believe social connection with others is so crucial for our mental health:

1.???? Social Support: Building and nurturing relationships provide us with a support system during challenging times. Knowing that we have someone to turn to for emotional support, encouragement, and advice can help alleviate stress and anxiety. Social support acts as a buffer against the negative effects of life's adversities, making us more resilient in the face of difficulties.

2.???? Reduced Feelings of Isolation: Loneliness and social isolation can have detrimental effects on mental health. When we feel disconnected from others, it can lead to feelings of sadness, depression, and low self-worth. By fostering meaningful connections with friends, family, and community members, we combat these feelings of isolation and enhance our sense of belonging.

3.???? Improved Self-Esteem: Positive social interactions boost our self-esteem and self-worth. When we feel valued and accepted by others, it reinforces our own sense of value and self-worth. This, in turn, contributes to greater confidence and a more positive outlook on life.

4.???? Enhanced Emotional Regulation: Interacting with others allows us to express and regulate our emotions in a healthy manner. Through empathetic listening and sharing our experiences, we gain perspective and insight into our own emotions. Additionally, the emotional support we receive from others can help us navigate challenging situations with greater resilience.

5.???? Stress Reduction: Engaging in social activities and forming meaningful connections can help alleviate stress and promote relaxation. Spending time with loved ones, engaging in enjoyable conversations, and participating in group activities stimulate the release of oxytocin and other feel-good hormones, which counteract the physiological effects of stress.

6.???? Sense of Purpose and Meaning: Meaningful connections with others provide us with a sense of purpose and fulfillment. Whether it's through contributing to the well-being of our loved ones, participating in community initiatives, or simply sharing experiences with friends, these connections give our lives meaning and significance.

7.???? Cognitive Stimulation: Interacting with others exposes us to new ideas, perspectives, and ways of thinking. Engaging in stimulating conversations and collaborative activities can enhance cognitive function and creativity, keeping our minds sharp and active.

In the modern world we are all busy and sometimes its our social life that is the first to go but we are wise to remember that reaching out to others is sometimes the first step to solving our current problem or dilemma.

And when we learn to know when to stand alone and when to ask for help we also begin to find the ingredients we need to become the best versions of ourselves whilst remaining our own best friend.