However, it’s important to keep maintaining social connections. The parties and dinners may be over, and you want to stay in to save money, but that doesn’t mean you are out of options.
Why Stay Connected?
Canadian Mental Health Association describes why connections are so important.
“Research shows us that loneliness is on the rise, and that a lack of human connection can be more harmful to your health than obesity, smoking and high blood pressure. Connecting with others is more important than you might think. Social connection can lower anxiety and depression, help us regulate our emotions, lead to higher self-esteem and empathy and actually improve our immune systems. By neglecting our need to connect, we put our health at risk.”
Fortunately, there are many great, low or no-cost options to keep social connections going in January.
Things to Try
- Volunteer. Many non-profit organizations could use assistance. Volunteer with your family or friends to do a food drive, help sort items or advocate for a cause.
- Board games. This standby never goes out of style. What could be better than friendly competition around the table? Everyone brings a snack to share and then… let the games begin! If you want to get out of the house, board game cafes are a very affordable way to spend some social time with friends.
- Online gaming. You don’t have to be a Call of Duty expert to play games socially online. You can create your own remote trivia nights by using Crowdpurr. This is a free way to quickly and easily set up a trivia game that people can access and play together remotely. All that is needed is a smartphone or computer. There is also the very popular Jackbox. For around $20 for a pack of games, you get access to tons of high-quality, animated, action games to play remotely.
- Group fitness. January is when most people set fitness goals. Stay motivated by working out with a buddy. Hit the gym together or bundle up and have a daily walking date.
- Dates. Speaking of dates, why not plan some romantic ones with your partner? Surprise them with a visit to one of the city’s many winter attractions. Skating, cross-country skiing, toboggan rides and more are fun to do on a date.
This January don’t let the cold weather keep you isolated. Plan some social interactions with family and friends, for the sake of your health.
This story was made possible by our Community Partners Program. Thank you Didsbury Dental for helping to expand local news coverage in Alberta. Learn more.
