Research has shown that levels of social connectedness are a predictor of overall health and wellbeing at all life stages. The Harvard Study of Adult Development, an ongoing study that followed over 700 men for over 80 years, has found that strong relationships were crucial to living a long and healthy life.

It didn’t matter their background, their financial status, or their cholesterol – their relationship quality was the most significant indicator of happiness and health over time.

Relationships are in our nature.

Humans are naturally social beings – not only do we want to connect with others, but we need to. Hunters and gatherers thousands of years ago depended on each other to stay safe, and while this need is not quite so literal today, it is more relevant than ever to ensure we work towards keeping closing relationships! We have a natural desire to access support from others and feel a sense of belonging, and when this desire is not met our health begins to suffer.

Relationships improve our health – dramatically.

Having strong relationships actually improves our mental state and risk of physical illness. Social connectedness is a top predictor of anxiety and depression, but it also boosts self-esteem and strengthens relationships. There is a strong correlation between your relationships and a healthier immune system to fight and assist recovery from illness.

Impact of loneliness and isolation.

Loneliness has significant health risks, including elevated cortisol levels (stress hormone), lowered immunity, depression, anxiety, and other antisocial behaviours. If you think back to Queensland’s lockdown period (March – June of 2020), we were mostly homebound.  The initial excitement of trading commuting for sleep ins, packed lunch for cooking, and more time at home wore off. We saw an increase in symptoms of depression and anxiety, as well as higher reported rates. With things like happy hour, hugs, or even coffee with colleagues off the table, we weren’t able to nourish our relationships in the same ways. It is no coincidence that our feelings of solitude and disconnection grew, and we felt that impact on our health.

Strong relationships mean strong communities; strong communities mean improved health.

So where does a gym fit into this equation?

CrossFit gyms are notorious for their communities. People not in the CrossFit world will often reference CrossFit communities as “cult-like”. But this is because at a CrossFit gym you finally feel like you belong. 

At Cultivar, you will be welcomed every day and cared for by every member of our community. If you miss a day, you are greatly missed, and we tell you that! If you have a birthday, we celebrate you! If you experience loss, we will support you. And of course, we strive to make your hour in the gym the best hour of your day.

Not only will you reap the benefits of CrossFit for your physical health with improved fitness and strength, you will also gain the relationships and community we all need for a healthy, long and happy life.

Are you ready to find your community? Book in for a free trial and feel the difference of a CrossFit community.