10 surprising behaviors that minimize loneliness
The brain tricks itself
By
Aditya Shukla, Psychologist
The surprisingly elegant research findings:
1. The brain equates temperature to emotions. cold = lonely, hot = social
2. Consumption behavior offsets the pain of loneliness
Source
Having warm drinks and soup
- physical warmth is interpreted as social warmth by the brain
1
Wearing snug clothes
- socks, muffler/scarf, tight clothing
2
Making small talk when you can
- Loneliness feels threatening but small-talk is disarming.
3
Using more blankets and pillows to feel like cuddles
- increases feelings of touch and safety.
4
Watching an exciting TV show
- parasocial relationships often satisfy people's social needs.
5
Buying things for yourself -
self love as self gifts makes us feel good.
6
Consuming things that make you feel a sense of belonging-
Products about a fandom, way of life, past music, etc.
7
Reading fiction
- immerse yourself in an empathetic connection with a book
8
Getting a spa or massage -
human contact and pampering instantly triggers oxytocin, a neurochemical that underlies love.
9
Gaming with other online players -
a sense of community can reduce loneliness dramatically
10
Next:
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