According to the World Health Organization (WHO), good health and well-being has 3 components:
1. Physical Health
2. Mental Health
3. Social Health

You may be surprised to learn that being socially active is a large part of optimal health and wellbeing. Studies show an active social life can lower blood pressure, reduce risk of Alzheimer’s disease, and lengthen your life.

Although there’s been large increase in meeting new people and creating social networks online, the numbers of Americans who have close relationships and confidantes has declined from 3 friends, to 2. What’s more, the number of people who have no one to confide in has more than doubled to 1 in 4. (WHO)

If you’re seeking new friends or looking for new ways to spend quality time with the friends you already have, why not join the local ski club, running club, gardening club, or hiking club. They’re easy to find. Just check out online platforms such as Meetup or head to your local sporting goods store where you’ll usually find flyers and brochures on a variety of outdoor activities.

Whether chatting or not, the Outdoors offer quality time for social interaction, fun and fitness. So for your next get-together, skip the restaurants and coffee houses, and take a hike instead!