By Michelle Wilson, wellness program manager
Time to reconnect: social well-being and you
The world is beginning to open back up and it is now possible to connect with people we may have been missing over the last year. What are you looking forward to doing? Do certain people come to mind when you think about re-connecting with friends and family members?
We are thinking about social wellbeing this month, and as summer starts, it is a perfect time to focus on this part of our health. At La Clinica, we think of social wellbeing as having healthy relationships with our friends, family, co-workers, and others in our lives. We support our social wellness by spending quality time with people, making a difference in our community, and having fun with those we care about.
What can you do to keep yourself healthy in this way? We have a few ideas to consider as you plan your summer.
- Connect with people you’ve been missing in your life. Is there someone you haven’t seen in several months (or even a year) and are wondering how they are doing? Chances are they may be thinking about you too. Be the one to reach out and plan a time to connect. Your friend will probably be glad you did!
- Celebrate your culture. Over the last year, many celebrations have been canceled. We are all missing these times when we can honor important holidays or events in our lives. Are you missing events that celebrate your culture? Or are you wishing for a gathering where traditional foods from your family can be shared? Plan a time when you can connect with others who share or appreciate your culture. Remember to gather safely, following all guidelines for masks and distancing. Keep your party safe for everyone so you can celebrate again soon.
- Do something for your community. Some organizations are accepting volunteers again and many organizations can use donations of money or items to continue their work. Choose something to do that will benefit others in your community and know that you are contributing to wellbeing for others beyond yourself.
- Write letters or send cards. Many of us are used to communicating through texts and emails, with an occasional phone call. Take a little time and write a letter or send a card to someone you care about. They will love getting it in the mail and it will help you remember what you most appreciate about this person in your life.
Tip: Check out short videos on social well-being by our behavioral health clinicians. Enjoy all of our videos on topics related to the wellness wheel.
Living a Healthy Life Video Series | La Clinica