Stagnant water is never healthy. When there is no movement or change, there is no longer a healthy balance. Bad bacteria take over, and without the introduction of new players in a small ecosystem, nothing thrives.
That biological principle applies to our social and psychological health, too. We are meant to be continuously learning, exploring, and interacting. With such a great wide world of wondrous people, places, and activities to experience, there is ample opportunity to let the imagination run wild and satisfy that most human of drives: curiosity.
Make your life more interesting, more rewarding, and healthier by adopting a few of these suggestions.
Meet new people
Engaging in conversation is the oldest form of exchange for information and ideas. Opening up the mind and the world by meeting more people is rewarding and promotes overall well-being.
Want a happier outlook? Socialize! Whether during the course of everyday life or on vacation, a genuine and engaging conversation is well worth the investment of time.
Try new things
Always wanted to try belly dancing? Go for it! Even if it’s an activity you’re afraid won’t like, try it. It’s amazing often you can surprise yourself and gain a new loves.
Seeking out new hobbies, trying new foods, taking that once-in-a-lifetime adventure all boost your happiness quotient. Erasing fear of the unknown and overcoming the “I’ll embarrass myself” excuse creates the opportunity to live fully.
By getting out of your own way, you’re doing your brain good, too. These activities create new pathways in the brain that may delay or prevent Alzheimer’s and dementia.
Small changes can make a difference, too. Not up for skydiving quite yet? Start out with mixing the little things up: take a new route to work, make something different for breakfast, brush those pearly whites with your non-dominant hand.
You only live once
Choose goals that inspire you. Write up a bucket list that dares you to dream BIG. Pin down those aspirations that make your heart beat a little faster and rev up some excitement — that’s more than half the battle.
Travel to distant lands is a sure-fire way to meet fascinating people, try new foods, and enjoy adventures that may not be possible back home because of geography or weather. Always wanted to go on a safari? Dip your toes in the ocean and gaze at an end of the earth? Head to South Africa and live out personal or shared dreams!
No matter what is on the wishlist, do yourself a favor and make it reality. Your brain, body, and life will thank you.
