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Why Germs Aren't The Only Things
You Can Catch From Others
It turns out that germs aren't the only thing that you can catch from other people. Interactions with others can also affect your health more directly that you may have previously thought. In fact, the quality of your relationships changes the way our brains and bodies function.
In his book, Social Intelligence, author Daniel Goldman offers scientific proof that we can 'catch' other people's emotions the same way we catch a cold.
Your Social Circuit
He identifies a set of brain processes he calls, "social circuitry" that allows us to tune-in to what others are feeling. Your level of empathy, concern and even influence comes from how well your social circuitry functions.
And it's not just brain responses that get affected. Your reactions also send out waves of hormones that affect your heartbeat, immune system and even how your DNA operates.
In a very real sense, we are living in a sea of emotions and responses to the people all around us and this 'sea' has immediate effects on our health. This may also be why we can sometimes be affected by someone else's mood or attitude.
How To Use This To Your Advantage
But it isn't all bad news. In fact, this social circuitry gives you the opportunity to create positive change in yourself and others.
For example, you can choose to spend more time around positive, supportive people. You can also choose to be positive and supportive of other people as well. This not only helps them be healthier, it also helps you at the same time!
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