Taking part in social interaction, activities, and initiatives is a great way to improve one’s brain fitness – even more when the activity involves volunteering and helping other community members. Social interaction stimulates the brain which can then improve cognitive functions such as memory, critical thinking, emotional intelligence, and decision-making. Another important thing to remember is that social interactions create and nurture connections with others that can reduce stress and combat the signs of depression. In other words, positive social interaction improves your mental health and eventually, your lifestyle.
The connection between social interaction and brain development
Kids learn a lot from people they meet throughout society and they bring with them valuable learnings which they can then apply or further explore as they grow older. According to a 2022 study by academics Emre Güvendir from Turkey and Bahiyyih Hardacre from the US, early social experiences and interactions of infants can “influence early brain development.”
Social interaction is vital for everyone because it gives people the chance to co-exist and be exposed to the many aspects of life. Learning is not restricted at home, at school, and at the office. There is no substitute to the values of social interaction. People can socialize online but nothing beats face-to-face connection.
How does social interaction impact our brain?
Gives a strong sense of belonging
Being part of a community or a group gives a strong sense of belonging. These attributes engage the mind even with just simple conversations. The value lies in the interaction and in the exchange of ideas and opinions with each other. The sense of belonging builds and nurtures an interest within an individual that drives him or her to be more involved and impact the lives of others.
Improves accountability
According to an article written by mental health expert and PQ coach Claire Thomas, mental fitness, insight, and accountability are keys to individuals becoming their best. It is true that not everything you hear or learn from social interaction is true or accurate. However, in engaging, you expand what you know which gives you a better understanding of what is right and what is wrong. With that, you get better accountability and you become more mindful and responsible for your actions.
Builds connections with others
Photo by Priscilla Du Preez on Unsplash
One of the best things about social interaction is that you can build meaningful and long-lasting relationships that can benefit your cognitive function and mental health. In every unique interaction, there is strong value in different situations. Even when people debate and argue. Their minds are hard at work which drives them to air out their voice with candor and respect. Social interaction built on those attributes enables humans to thrive as we are all social creatures.
Remember the book learning isn’t the only way to boost your brain or cognition. Again, there are lessons you’ll never learn if you are inactive when it comes to social interactions. Keeping yourself restricted might result in That is why it is always a good idea to be more involved in social activities but make sure to pick what you think is a viable path for you where you can impact the lives of others positively.
If you want to strengthen your brain fitness, remember to learn more about brain exercises and super-foods that are good for the brain. Mix social interaction with those two and see yourself thrive.
