The Benefits of Fun Events, Even When You’re Not In The Mood
Health issues become more common as we age, causing unexpected side effects. One of these is a loss of interest in the fun activities we once enjoyed. When this happens, it creates a vicious cycle. The lack of fun breeds feelings of depression, loneliness, and reduced energy, which reduces interest in these activities even more. That’s why it’s important to understand the benefits of fun events and entertaining activities in your routine, countering these feelings and gaining the benefits of fun.
At Fairview Rehab and Nursing Home in Queens NY, there are several recreation and fun activities to choose from, including pet therapy, games, live music, and community trips. These are designed to decrease symptoms of depression, anxiety, and isolation, healing the mind and body at the same time. Patients are encouraged to attend them all, to gain the benefits we’ll discuss below.
Benefits of Fun Events for Mental Health
Including fun activities in your day has several benefits for your mental health. When you’re enjoying yourself, your brain releases serotonin, which is a chemical that regulates most of our basic processes. These include mood, memory, concentration, body temperature, and sleep patterns. Every time you participate in fun events, your serotonin levels increase, and all those functions improve.
Health issues can also cause stress, which can be damaging to mental health. When your worries take over, it becomes harder to cope with difficult situations. Having fun can help by reducing stress and calming your mind. Over time, you’ll find it much easier to deal with anything life throws your way.
Another benefit of adding games, music, and other fun activities to your routine is improved social connections. Illnesses and health conditions can make it difficult to get out and see others. This breeds feelings of loneliness and isolation. When you join group activities, social connections are built, often leading to meaningful and lasting friendships.
Improving physical health
Any health condition or issue you’re dealing with takes a toll on your physical health. Part of this is due to the raised cortisol levels when you’re feeling stressed. These high levels in the body can lead to weight gain and an inability to fight infection. Adding fun events to your day can counter this, lowering cortisol levels and increasing physical health.
When dealing with medical conditions or mental health issues, you may notice a drop in energy levels. During these times, it feels draining to get up and do anything, including having fun. Fighting these feelings of despondency and forcing yourself to have fun is a must to help boost your energy.
As soon as you’re around others, playing games, dancing, singing, or even just going for a walk, your energy levels will improve. As energy increases, you’ll soon go looking for fun events to participate in, keeping your energy level up permanently.
Sleep patterns can also be improved when you incorporate fun into your life. The more enjoyable your day is, the more positive your thoughts will be when trying to sleep at night. You’ll be more relaxed as well, thanks to the reduced cortisol levels, for a more restful night.
This article contains informational and educational materials and does not replace health or medical advice. For questions or concerns regarding your medical condition or health objectives, speak to a qualified physician or healthcare provider.
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