Reset Your Social Life

Being social—whether in person or online—is good for your health! Harvard, Psychology Today and others say being social helps us live longer, boost our immune system and reduce risks of dementia, depression and even cancer.

Whether you prefer large groups of new people or small gatherings with trusted friends, extraverts and introverts alike can find ways to overcome isolation this season and socialize for good health.

Phone date

Schedule time to connect from the comfort of your favorite couch or chair.

Host someone

Invite a friend for a dinner or walking date. Have a friend or family member over for coffee or tea.

Babysit or help with homework

Short bursts with grandkids, nieces or nephews are sometimes better than a full day. They help avoid the stress and spending of grand gestures.

Get a pet

Furry or feathered friends can provide sweet companionship and health benefits as well.

Create something to talk about

Visit a museum, show or game with a friend and chat about what you see. Or join a book group you find through the library, internet or word of mouth.

Skype or FaceTime

Catch up with distant family and friends with a video call.

Walk openly

Stroll through your neighborhood and make a point of stopping to say hello to people you meet.

Follow that dream

Take a class or find a group on meetup.com to develop writing, music, woodworking or any other talent you’ve always meant to explore.

Volunteer

Many causes need help. Call to offer your skills, or start with an organization experienced with volunteers like Habitat for Humanity.

Sweat together

Join a local club or league for soccer, softball, rowing, bowling or another sport you enjoy or want to learn. Or invite a friend to jog, walk, swim or work out with you.

Slack together

For a laid-back group experience, check out Underdog Sports Leagues for bocce ball, cornhole, kickball, dodgeball and more.

Be board

Organize a game or card night, or visit one at a local game shop.

Throw a party

It’s a great excuse to clean up your place. Plus you can ask other people to bring the food.

Pop up (at an event)

Subscribe for alerts to surprise music or comedy events around town.

“Show” up

Use the app BandsInTown to link your music preferences to local shows by your favorite artists—and see which friends are going, too.

WE RECOMMEND

• Fun-focused, low-key sports: www.underdogseattle.com
• Public library book groups and author talks
• Video chat with FaceTime, Skype, WeChat, Viber
• Making new connections: www.bumble.com/bff
• Intimate gigs in small venues: www.sofarsounds.com
• Google “volunteering” + your hometown