Healthy Activities and Fun Things to Do With Friends.
Want to relieve stress and lead a healthy life? Head to an art gallery, go shopping or belt out tunes on karaoke night. Grab some friends and try out these surprising activities that are both healthy and good for groups.
Call your close friends for a night out in the town, or nerd out with them over board games. Studies have shown that spending quality time with friends boosts the immune system, reduces levels of stress and speeds recovery. Having a strong support network and social ties might even help you live longer.
Boost motivation with friendly competition! Compete with family and friends to see who walks the most per week - winner gets a treat.
Shopping is a good way to sneak in some exercise: a UK study found that women take an average of 7,300 steps per shopping trip. Hit the malls for a window-shopping spree and you're well on your way to clock the recommended 10,000 steps per day.
Pamper yourself with a massage or mini-pedicure to rejuvenate your body and mind.
Volunteering is good for your mind and body. A Singapore study found that volunteers were more likely to report being happy and satisfied with their lives than non-givers. Other studies have also linked volunteering with greater longevity and lower risk of heart disease. Not sure where to start? Check out giving.sg for some ideas.
Enjoy singing karaoke? You'll sing for joy to learn that singing brings you various health benefits - the aerobic activity works out muscles in your upper body, is good for your heart and reduces stress. Group singing also fosters social bonding.
Tap into your artsy side to de-stress. How Does Art Relieve Stress? A visit to the art gallery might help reduce levels of cortisol, commonly known as stress hormone. To build up stress resistance, pick up a brush and paint a piece or two - a study showed that creating visual art can improve psychological resilience.