My cousin Charles and his family came up to the cottage this past weekend. It was great to see them. I can’t even remember the last time we were all together. There was a time when I saw Charles regularly, but that’s not the case anymore.

Growing up, I saw my relatives all the time. Every week we’d visit someone’s home — and it wasn’t just on weekends. You didn’t have to call first; you just got in the car and went. Whether it was a visit to my grandparents’ or an aunt and uncle’s place, I saw my cousins constantly. That was just the way of life.

Today, things are different. Everyone has their own family and their own busy schedule. Face-to-face interactions are becoming rare. Even phone calls are almost extinct. Now it’s mostly text messages or social media. Outside of weddings, funerals, or the odd event, extended family gatherings are few and far between. And believe it or not, that lack of real human interaction can actually impact your health.

Food may be our primary source of nourishment, but there are other essential forms of “nutrition” we often overlook — like sunshine, sleep, and social connection. Yes, we are truly nourished by each other’s company. A powerful example of this is the story of Roseto, Pennsylvania:

Take-Home Message

If you’re running low on “real-life” social interaction, make it a priority to unplug and reconnect with family and friends. Your health depends on it.