Connect with Your Community! It’s Good for Your Health

Posted: February 4, 2025 | By: Shanon Peckham

Community and Your Health

The importance of community for our health and well-being really can’t be overstated. The phrase “laughter is the best medicine” is just as important now as it was when it was first written, well before our digital age.¹ Long before cell phones and social media, humans distinguished themselves as social creatures, living together in groups, communities, and eventually societies.^2,3 Humans thrive on connection, so much so that it has become a key pillar of our health and well-being.

Research from the last several years tells us that 20-30% of American adults feel lonely.^4,5,6,7Aside from leaving us feeling kind of blue, this real or perceived isolation from others puts our mental and physical well-being at risk. According to the CDC, chronic loneliness can increase your risk of developing heart disease, diabetes, depression, anxiety, dementia, and even premature death.^7,8 On the other hand, when you’re immersed in supportive social atmospheres and community, your resilience to the same health risks actually improves. You can also expect to sleep, eat, and feel better!⁹

We make a difference when we work together

Community connectivity is also at the heart of innovation, education, and quality of life betterment. As they say, “two heads are better than one!” You alone might not know how to repair a car, build a house, grow food, or diagnose an illness, but the more people there are in your circle, the more likely you are to encounter someone with those skills. Community problem-solving, when done equitably, can address issues in a way that is fair and beneficial to the majority, not just a small few.^10,11 Extra hands also means the work gets done faster and the local economy booms! Just think of the great pyramids, colosseums, and other engineering marvels we’ve crafted as a global society. Grassroots organization gets officials elected, mutual aid to those who need it, and advances causes that are worth our attention. When humans get together, we accomplish incredible things, and that applies to your local community as well.

Here at Youngevity, we’re so grateful to be part of such an amazing, dedicated community! It takes more than a village to spread our mission for nutrition, but the results are so worth it. Thanks to you, we’ve been able to help others achieve life-changing better health and financial success around the world. With your help, we’ve expanded our operation to 7 different countries and sold more Plant Derived Minerals™ and BTT than you can even imagine – we’re talking Olympic-sized swimming pools full!

How You Can Be More Connected

When you feel lonely all the time, it can be really hard to push yourself to be around people (ironically). Instead of trying to push away uncomfortable feelings (or interactions) with distractions like television, games, or social media, try leaning into them to better understand where they come from. Are you feeling alone because your job or location keeps you isolated from others? Do you like being on your own but feel pressured to hang out with people who don’t really get you? Maybe you feel like it’s been so long since you were part of a community that you might not be worth hanging out with, or that you’re unwelcome. The first step towards healthier relationships with those around you starts with getting to know yourself on a deeper level and healing wounds that need attention.

When you’re feeling more secure and ready to push yourself, there are a number of ways you can connect with the right people and deepen your connection with your existing social circle. The good news is, whether you’re shy or outgoing, it’s super easy to bond over shared interests! Most cities have a wide variety of in-person social groups you can explore; from church choirs and exercise groups to niche ham radio clubs and painting classes, there’s usually a little something for everyone. If you’re in a small town or out in the middle of nowhere, online groups may be more your speed.

Learning new skills can also bring you together with new friends and potential business connections. In addition to your Duolingo practice, why not practice a new language through an immersion program? If you’ve always wanted to learn how to make pasta from scratch, sign up with a friend or date. If there’s a special talent you have, show it off on streaming platforms like YouTube or Twitch; you’ll be surprised how many people you can meet through live streams. Travel and exploration are also great ways to meet new people; we’ve never been on a hiking trail where passersby didn’t stop to talk to us! International hostels, cruises, conferences, and festivals all offer great opportunities to immerse yourself in community, if diving in feels more like your style.

Last but definitely not least, pets are ideal for homebodies and introverts who want a little companionship with minimal effort. Though not a replacement for community, our furry friends provide comfort, fun, and an opportunity to get outside for regular walks – where you might meet someone new!

Keep pushing yourself to be authentic, accountable, emotionally present, and open to new connections – it will enrich your social circle, your life, and your health!