Don’t let the cold keep you isolated
Especially when the weather turns cooler it is often easier to decide to stay home and sit in a comfortable chair rather than get out in the community.
There is valid scientific research though that shows isolation results in depression, being more introverted, and cognitive decline because there is little outside stimulation.
Something as simple as a walk and making a point of talking to people you meet along the way, or going out for coffee, can have huge rewards in terms of mental health well-being.
What you see, hear and observe while out and about sparks new thoughts and ideas, creating a new perspective. The benefits can last for days or even weeks.
Some of you may argue that watching television is a suitable substitute but it is not the same. You can't have a two-way conversation with the people of TV.
There is plenty of research about the benefits of taking a friend along on your walk compared to going alone. A walk on your own can still feel isolating and you can feel absorbed in your own world while walking. Take a friend along and there is engagement, even in making the arrangements to go together. You share perspectives during the walk, challenge ideas and thoughts. That is hugely positive.
A Norwegian University study determined that a visit to a museum actually reduces anxiety. Walking through a museum can engage your mind and inform you on something you knew little about.
One of the health benefits is taking your mind off your own problems, aches and pains, and worries. It makes you a much more interesting person to be around because you will want to share new information and describe your experience. It may even lead to more visitors when you are not able to get out and about.
The London School of Economics has suggested the benefits can be equivalent to receiving a raise. Another says visiting a museum has similar advantages as playing a sport does.
Museums have a way of allowing us to revisit the past, recall old memories, and relive your childhood when everything was new and fresh and adventurous. Recalling memories from your own past can have you reliving your youth and maybe even have you chuckling.
To gain the maximum pleasure when visiting the museum plan to have coffee, where you don't normally go, before or after your visit to the museum. If your budget does not stretch to a coffee or lunch at a restaurant, pack a sandwich and a drink you can enjoy on a park bench. Choose a bench where you can enjoy a view or watch people walking by.
Better still why not invite a friend to have coffee in your home. As a society we have moved away from doing this but I think we have lost out along the way.
People watching can be very entertaining too and does not cost anything. There are lots of construction projects on the go in the city. It is a great way to observe techniques being used.
If you have got used to staying home it will take a concerted effort to change that. You have to make a decision and go for it. Inviting a friend to accompany you can help in terms of motivation. You may need to schedule this on your calendar as if it is as important as a scheduled appointment with your doctor - an appointment you are not going to easily cancel. When you are going with others you also can't really pull out of a pre-arranged date can you?
Here's to getting out and about and reaping the rewards of interacting with people and here’s To Your Health.
To Your Health is a weekly column by Gillian Slade, health reporter for the News, bringing you news on health issues and research from around the world. You can reach her at gslade@medicinehatnews.com or 403-528-8635.