Healing Power of Social Time

Shelli Marsh
Jul 7
2 min read

It's not just fun, it’s necessary.

The Healing Power of Meaningful Social Time

Introduction

We often think of healing as something we do alone—through prayer, self-reflection, or quiet moments of rest. But science shows that one of the most powerful ways to heal is through connection. Spending quality time with people who uplift and support us isn’t just enjoyable; it has profound effects on our mental, emotional, and even physical health.

Why Social Connection is Essential for Well-Being

Human beings are wired for connection. A study by Holt-Lunstad et al. (2010) in Perspectives on Psychological Science found that social isolation increases the risk of early mortality as much as smoking 15 cigarettes a day. Another study published in PNAS by Haslam et al. (2018) showed that people who regularly engage in social activities have lower risks of anxiety and depression.

The Healing Effects of Quality Time Together

Lowers Stress and Anxiety When we spend time with people we trust, our body releases oxytocin, the “bonding” hormone. This reduces cortisol (the stress hormone), helping us feel calmer and more grounded.
Increases Happiness and Emotional Resilience Deep conversations and emotional support stimulate serotonin and dopamine—neurotransmitters that enhance mood and increase emotional resilience.
Boosts Physical Health Positive social interactions strengthen the immune system, reduce inflammation, and even lower blood pressure. Researchers have found that people with strong social ties recover from illness faster and live longer lives.