I have read that as one ages that social interaction is very important. It affects the health and well being when you are disconnected from every day interactions and social interactions. Studies suggest getting out and visiting and having interactions with others is extremely beneficial to one's health.
I have made an effort to increase my social interactions this year. I have vowed to take a more active role in my Metal Detecting Club and got myself voted in as Vice President. I didn't campaign for the spot, but as I attempted to have more of a voice in the club, our President basically appointed me to the position for the simple fact I was showing more interest and activity in the club. I had taken on a recruitment role of getting new members in the club and setting up an Intro to Metal Detecting class at our local library. At the very next meeting I found myself voted in as VP. Last night was a club meeting and I interacted with the 11 attendees.
On Friday, I have set up a third meeting of a neighborhood men's coffee club meeting. The last two have seen attendance of 2 and then 3 men. I already have noticed that at least 3 will show up for this Friday. The last two coffee meetings were very nice with great conversation and a chance to learn more about my neighbors.
Both of these social engagements do leave me a little happier after I attend them. I do see the benefits of social engagement to a fulfilling life. I encourage each of you to seek out social interactions with others, even if it is a brief encounter at your mailbox, at the grocery store or other location.
My wife will be attending a monthly Bunco meeting tomorrow night. This is in it's third month I think. She has enjoyed these and it really brings people together in our neighborhood.
Also, this month someone has started a Bunny Bopped campaign in our neighborhood. You get a flyer and a gift that says you have been "Bunny Bopped" and then you are to go out and Bunny Bop someone else. We have participated in the past in a similar activity around Halloween where you get "Booed". This is another fun and social activity that is small but brings the community together.
What social activities to you participate in? Club activities, Church activities or some other social event? How often do you think you participate in some type of social interaction? Does you neighborhood have things like Bunny Bopped going around the streets?
Please share any other ideas of fun things to do that will enhance social engagements. Warmer weather is here and starts a great social season ahead!
I have always thought there must be a mark on my forehead to let people know I will say yes to volunteering. They all have my number. I am a talker, too, and I am a friend organizer. Weekly I volunteer at my church charity where I socialize with other board members, clients and other tenants in the building like a beautician and an accounting office which has several acquaintances as clients this time of year. My husband and I joined our local recreation center and socialize with the other walkers daily, as well as the toddlers and my new friends, adults from a group home that come every other day. They love to chat as we walk. Tomorrow I am having lunch with girls I went to high school with, Friday a road trip to Trader Joe's with women from my discontinued stained glass classes at the senior center. Saturday is lunch with the library retirees. I worked there for six years in the late 80's and early 90's and we are all still friends. Monday is another lunch with some neighbors and Monday evening is our library's Crime Podcast Club (I am the secretary). I have been doing most of my socializing at the doctor's offices and hospital so lunches are a welcome change.
ReplyDeleteAt the end of the month is a protest march with my political friends and then our local genealogy club.
Wow! If social engagement help us live longer you should make it to 120. Great job staying connected.
DeleteAlthough I love to talk with people, somehow I keep gravitating to computer-based volunteer jobs that require little human interaction.
ReplyDeleteJust don't take it to an extreme and become a shut in hermit! Studies show even small interactions benefit us. I'm sure if you love to talk to people, you have small interactions through your week.
Delete