From social distancing to social connecting - the challenge of social connectedness is real.

From social distancing to social connection - the challenge of social connectedness is real.

We are certainly moving towards a new “new normal” - especially when, for Hong Kong, many of the restrictions regarding travel and social distancing have only just begun to be relaxed. Approaching the holiday season, the idea of connectedness in our community is more important than you perhaps thought.

Not surprisingly, social distancing has been linked to loneliness and disconnectedness in the community. Research in Science Online Journal showed that lack of social connection is a greater detriment to health than obesity, smoking and high blood pressure

Stanford University states that social connection:

– leads to a 50% increased chance of longevity

– strengthens your immune system( research by Steve Cole shows that genes impacted by loneliness also code for immune function and inflammation)

– helps you recover from disease faster

– may even lengthen your life!

But if you don’t pursue this magic elixir, they also state that you can expect to experience  “declines in physical and psychological health as well as a higher likelihood for antisocial behavior that leads to further isolation.”