One Word That Fights Off Both Viruses and Loneliness
Have you ever gone to bed at night feeling sad or lonely? Then, you woke up not feeling refreshed, but exhausted and on edge. You are not alone. It's been found that your emotional state at night can influence your body's stress system in a profound way.
A study from the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences found that "Prior-day feelings of loneliness, sadness, threat, and lack of control were associated with a higher cortisol awakening response the next day." When cortisol floods the body and the brain, it has been shown to put the brakes on our immune system by reducing T-cells; cortisol has been shown to kill NK cells—important immune cells that help fight off viruses and even some kinds of tumors.
The "one word that fights off viruses and loneliness" is relationships. If you feel alone and lacking support, then your body will boost your cortisol response to prepare you for what it thinks will be a stressful day.
Mindfulness Prescription for Warding Off Viruses and the Dark Clouds of Loneliness
- Call one person who can make you smile or laugh.
- Text someone you know, and wish them a "good night."
- Physically give someone close to you a hug or a kiss before going to bed.
- Go out of your way to contact someone who might be lonely.
- Reflect back on one positive interaction you had with another person earlier that day.
- Journal your experience of being with another person earlier that day or week that lifted your spirits."
Read the complete article available at Psychology Today!
Reflection:
Who do you turn to when you feel lonely?
#Relationships #Loneliness #MentalHealth
@comfortableNight4463
Having someone to hang out with or talk to, is nice indeed. ✨
I usually turn to movies/ series haha or 7 cups, when I need some company! 🥰
How about you?
@Sunisshiningandsoareyou That's nice. I turn to my best friend; she is super supportive and has been there for me since the beginning. So grateful.
Aww that's lovely, best friends are a blessing! 💛 @comfortableNight4463
@Sunisshiningandsoareyou So true!
