Staying in Touch

Bing. Beep beep. Buzzzzzzzz.

Sound familiar? Sad thing is, it probably does.

We are all so attached to our phones… It's almost like we speak another language.

Texts. Emojis. Memes.

What is happening to human interaction? Now look, I don't want to sound like the grumpy, old guy waving his cane at those "pesky, young kids." I love my phone. It's helped me out of a few jams. I've been very lost… and without my phone to help me get home… Who knows where I'd be?

Plus, I use my phone to video call my grandkids & kids. I love being able to see their faces. And texting jokes back & forth with my buddies never gets old.

But, you have to draw the line somewhere. Well, here's my line: When folks would rather interact with their phone than other people. You know you've seen it. The young couple at dinner. And both are on their phones.

Use your phone as a tool. To help you stay connected to family and friends. DO NOT let it replace those connections.

Here's why: It's been proven how interaction with family & friends is good for your health. Very good. Check out what I found:

Stress 

A study conducted by Carnegie Mellon University found that folks use family and friends as de-stressors. This means friends and family are folks that you can trust to talk to about your problems. Which is a positive thing. Because some folks turn to negative stuff — like drinking.

May Lengthen Your Life 

An article in the American Society of Aging said that "older adults with larger social networks have a good episodic memory, better cognitive functions and a lower allostatic load." That means there's less wear & tear on your body and brain from stress. Having good relationships will give you these positive health effects.

Improve Well-Being

One study showed that folks who see their friends and families as supportive "reported a greater sense of meaning in life and felt like they had a stronger sense of purpose."

Good for Your Cardio Health

As you know stress is bad. It causes inflammation. Which can spell trouble for your heart. Good friends and a strong social network can ease stress. One study showed that when people were asked to recount a stressful event… their pulse was way lower when they had a buddy by their side. 

Hey, they don't call it the "buddy system" for nothing. Your phone is a great way to stay in touch. But you should use your phone as the "starting place" to get a real, in-person conversation started. It'll be better for you and your friend too!

Previous article Take A Break

Leave a comment

Comments must be approved before appearing

* Required fields