Why Social Health Matters as Much as Exercise and Healthy Eating

We all know that caring for our bodies and minds is important—exercise, healthy eating, sleep, and therapy. But as TED speaker Kasley Killam shared through her own story, those habits aren’t enough on their own. Something else is just as vital for our well-being: social health.

Social health is all about the quality and quantity of our relationships—family, friends, neighbors, coworkers, and community. Without it, even the healthiest body and the strongest mind can still feel depleted. Loneliness isn’t just emotionally painful; it’s linked to higher risks of heart disease, depression, dementia, and even early death.

Kasley introduced a simple “5-3-1 guideline” to build social health:

• 5 – Interact with five different people each week.

• 3 – Nurture at least three close relationships.

• 1 – Spend one hour a day in meaningful connection.

For her, intentionally investing in friendships, joining community events, and creating ways to connect made a bigger difference than physical and mental self-care alone.

At Mama & Me Adventure Club, this philosophy is already woven into everything we do. Our adventures aren’t just about getting outside with your kids—they’re about building a village around you. Whether it’s chatting with another mom during a stroller walk, watching your kids giggle together at a playground, or swapping stories around a campfire, each event is a chance to strengthen your own “5-3-1.”

Because here’s the truth: motherhood can be isolating, but it doesn’t have to be. When you nurture your social health, you’re not only taking care of yourself—you’re modeling community, friendship, and belonging for your kids. And that’s an adventure worth prioritizing.

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