REACH OUT TO 5 A FRIEND (OR GET A PET)

Social connections work wonders to keep our immune systems humming along in a healthy way, Khabbaza says. This is because spending time with a friend (even if you’re just laughing or chatting together) tells the brain that you’re safe—and eliminates the possibility of a stressful fight-orflight response. In addition, interacting with a pet can boost your mood, lower your blood pressure and keep your brain healthy.