…stays together!
Most of us live busy lives where we are constantly on the going, always trying to do more. Most of our communication is done through our phones or computers. While staying busy can be good, it is also important to slow down and enjoy time with people in person. The way that we socially interact with others can have a huge impact on both your mental and physical health.
So who should you try to spend your free time with?
People you care about!! Whether it’s your family, your spouse, or close friends, spend time with people you like to be around.
What are the benefits of spending time with family and close friends?
Enhances overall health. Spending time with those you care about can help both your mental health and your physical health. Spending time with your family can increase your happiness levels and reduce depression and anxiety. Highland Springs Clinic explains how spending time with your family can increase your physical health. This is done by things like making food at home together and participating in activities like sports or hikes.
Better behavior. When families frequently spend time together, children will develop better behavior. For Magic states that children who spend time with their families typically have better grades, become less violent, work better as a team, can stay calm during problems, and more!
Increased success. Families and good friends are meant to encourage and boost each other up. Family Focus Blog states, “A positive family environment allows the individuals to blossom instead of worry. . .Family helps provide you with a safety net and gives you a reason to push yourself to succeed.”
What are some fun ways you can spend time with your family or close friends?
Eat breakfast together. This gives you time together first thing in the morning and can put everyone in a good mood. And besides, breakfast is the most important meal of the day.
Leave messages for each other. Get fun colored sticky notes and leave each other secret messages in different areas of the house.
Have a monthly outing. Whether it’s going on vacation or just going to the park down the street, get out of the house. Take a vote and decide to go somewhere like a museum, a water park, a restaurant, or a bowling alley.
Put phones and technology away. While technology is nice, it is also distracting. Turn off the devices and focus on talking and playing with each other. This will help your mental health too!
Go for a walk. This is a great way to get out of the house and get some fresh air. You can talk about everyone’s days and discuss things you want to work on. Walking has lots of health benefits and can help your family become healthier!
Plan some fun activities and start spending time with the people you care about!