As women, we tend to prioritise our mental health. Indulging in self-care practices that boost our well-being and empower us has become a necessity.
One practice that is gaining popularity amongst ladies of all ages is joining a social club. From dog-walking and wine-tasting groups to book and fitness clubs, there are countless opportunities to bond with like-minded people while improving your well-being.
Here is how to find your tribe amongst the hustle and bustle of everyday life and boost your mental health.
The benefits of social interactions
The benefits of social clubs for our well-being go much beyond the social component. They are like a wellness shot for our entire system.
Being part of a group can provide a sense of belonging, support, and purpose, all of which can improve our mental health. It can weather out feelings of loneliness and isolation, which contribute to the development of depression.
Somehow, one-on-one connections in a pleasant environment have become a luxury nowadays. In a world where we often feel disconnected from each other, being either engrossed in work or distracting ourselves with technology, finding a way to connect with like-minded people is a must.
Engaging with people in a social setting helps us feel young, loved, and involved, thus improving our life satisfaction and contributing to longevity.
But the benefits of social interactions go beyond mental health. Our physical health can be massively improved too. A recent study found that older people who participated weekly in social activities reduced their risk of developing a chronic condition by 8% compared to no participation, and minimised the risk of developing two or more chronic conditions by 22%.
Attending these clubs also allows you to try new things, learn new skills, improve physical health, and meet new people. They are a reason to get out of your routine, dress in your favourite attire and bring your best self to the forefront of social interactions.
The book clubs’ craze
There are many social clubs you can join, and it’s important to find activities that align with your interests and values.
In 1996, Oprah Winfrey established her book club. She pioneered elucidating a sense of community and belonging amongst women who like to read and connect on a deeper level, empowering them to be modern-day bookworms.
“Over the course of my lifetime, books have helped me know that I’m not alone, even when I’m at my loneliest,” said Oprah Winfrey.
But she is not the only celebrity who is connecting women through their love for reading. Book clubs have become the epitome of female empowerment, with stars such as Reese Witherspoon, Emma Roberts, and Sarah Jessica Parker having book clubs that attract hundreds of members.
Whether they’re celebrity-led or hosted in your local bookstore, book clubs serve as a nudge for women to read new releases on Goodreads, share their thoughtful opinions with other book lovers, and spruce conversations around current and deeper topics.
Other social clubs to try
Social clubs not only provide a sense of community and connection but are also a doorway to engaging in other self-care practices that complement the social component and boost well-being. For the lady of today, a skincare and hair routine, along with choosing a desirable outfit, is an essential part of social events that can act as a self-esteem booster.
Joining a wellness or fitness club, for example, would encourage you to wear fashionable trainers and activewear that make you feel even better in your body and accentuate your progress. A wine-tasting club can inspire you to put on a red dress and heeled women’s boots in black while joining a fashion club can bring out your inner fashion diva.
Joining social clubs can motivate us to become our best versions and gain confidence in our bodies, style, intelligence, and social skills.
So, what are you waiting for? If your local wine and draw club or dog-walking group is calling upon you, gift yourself the chance to connect with like-minded people and do something nice for yourself.
Not only will you improve your mental health, but you’ll also have fun and potentially make some new friends in the process. Your mental health (and your wardrobe) will thank you.
