Stay Connected, But Truly Connected!

The book Ikigai explains that for longevity, having relationships with 'living' people is the true medicine.

The virtual world brings people closer, but for physical and mental health, in-person meetings have a unique importance.

Benefits of true Social Connection:

1. Oxytocin (bonding hormone) increases, reducing loneliness. 2. The incidence of depression and anxiety decreases. 3. The ability to handle mental stress improves. 4. Immunity strengthens. 5. Smiling and eye contact release dopamine. 6. Digital fatigue reduces. 7. New thoughts and experiences come beyond the routine. 8. Communication increases emotional flexibility. 9. The incidence of heart diseases and cognitive decline decreases. 10. Feeling less lonely helps maintain motivation.

Take some time; relationships are nurtured not in chatboxes but over a cup of tea.

Dr Ravindra L Kulkarni MD DNB FSCAI Cardiology Just For Hearts