Build Your Social Support Network

First, let's talk about why social support is important and why it is important that your self-care. Research has shown that a lack of social support (isolation) can contribute to a persistent state of chronic stress, which negatively affect the immune system and put you at risk for dangerous conditions.

Now, what can enhance your social support network do for you? Social support can improve the function of your immune system, protects you against disease and it can increase your vitality, reduce your stress and improve your self-esteem.

WHAT MAKES A SOCIAL Support Network SOLID?

STRENGTH - Make sure you do not expect one or two persons to provide all the support you need. It can be difficult for them and for you (if they are suddenly not able to be there for you). Reach out regularly to several people.

BLACK - Similarly, many people in your support network gives you access to their different skills, perspectives and experiences.

COMMON GROUND - If you deal with a particularly difficult challenge or have a very specific goal, then find and regularly interact with others in the "same boat" can have very positive results. Whether it is to find out how others have handled a situation, or to share some of your experiences, groups like this can be a big boost to your self-care program.

SOMETHING to reach for - Make a point of building or strengthening your relationships with people who inspire, encourage and support you and bring you to grow and be your best self. For example, a person who is very committed to his or her own self-care will inspire you to make a positive self-care choices. And one who is very loving and supportive will help you to feel comfortable.

5 ways to nurture your support network :

1. Call or write when things are good and when not. Sharing your gratitude and appreciation can help to deepen your relationships and will also reinforce your good feelings.

2. Be open to new people. You never know when someone new to come into your life, or the unique gifts they will bring. We believe that we sometimes are designed to connect with some people only briefly - so instead of thinking: "I have no time for a new friend," go with your heart and get curious about what you can learn to interact with this person.

3. Offer to help. Whether it's people you know or people you have not met yet (i.e., through a voluntary position), helping others can be a tremendous lift for your own self-care. And remember that your self-care still comes first!

4. Livers of four agreements, created by Don Miguel Ruiz - Be impeccable with your word, do not take anything personally, do not make assumptions and always do your best.

5. If you do not want to talk to someone, talk to someone. Sometimes we choose to be isolated. It can be really hard to get where we want to do this. Do it anyway.

It is important to remember that your social relationships can also have a negative impact on your self-care. Unspoken truths, inadvertent sabotage, or consistently assume the role of care-principal can all add stress and affect your engagement in self-care.

So instead, your caring positive relationships and keep your social support network strong and working for you.