Connectedness is a much protective factor--probably more--than lowering
your blood pressure, losing weight, quitting smoking, or wearing your
seatbelt.

People with the fewest connections to family, friends, community, and
religious institutions were three times more likely to die sooner. Those
with the most connections live significantly longer, even if they smoked,
drank or live on cheeseburgers, additionally even if you have a deadly
disease, being connected prolongs your life. The more ties you have, the
more likely you are to stay well in the first place.

How does human contact affect the body? How can a smile, a handshake, or 5
minutes of chatter keep cells functioning, blood moving, and hearts
beating? We don't know admits Dr. Hallowell. But what we do know is that
it enhances the immune system, lowers blood pressure, and reduces heart
rate. But the "how" is still a mystery.

You don't have to have a multitude of friends or be a gregarious
back-slapping kind of person to lead a connected life, nor do you have to
give up e-mail, voice mail or any other electronics conveniences. What you
do need to do is develop close relationships--at home, in the community,
and on the job. Here's how to start.

Make your favorite connections - Eat dinner with the family regularly,
keep up with friends, read aloud to your children, visit Grandma and
Grandpa, walk in the park.

"Do lunch" regularly - Schedule it once per month.

Ditch the bloodsuckers - The only way to make room for meaningful
relationships is to get rid of the connections that aren't rewarding for
you.

Renew your faith - Go to church regularly

Make good use of technology - Reach out and touch relatives scattered all
over the country

Make peace with the family jerk - Pick up the phone, write a letter or just
go see him.

Get to know your ancestors - Visit the cemetery where relatives are buried,
do a genealogical search.

Honor family rituals - Sunday afternoon picnics, 4th of July Barbecues and
coming of age parties.

Pet your pet - It is impossible to stay disconnected when pets are around.

Know thy neighbors - Have tehm over often

Talk to old people - Get them talking, you'd be surprised at what you'll
learn

Smile in the elevator - Take trivial contact seriously