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Being around others is most rewarding if you feel that you can really be yourself. Depending on who you're with, it can take a little courage. Practice being authentically yourself in situations that feel safe so you get used to the feeling.

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Did you know that having healthy relationships can improve your overall health? This is called social wellness, which consists of not only balancing our own physical, mental, and emotional health, but also contributing to the greater good of society. It involves engaging in and enjoying meaningful interactions with other people in all areas of our lives, which can help us live longer and respond better to stress. This results in a healthier endocrine system, healthier cardiovascular functioning, and an enhanced immune system.

To help you cultivate habits of social wellness, check out the following gallery.

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When you have a positive outlook, other people will enjoy being with you, and you’ll enjoy yourself more as well. Be present and put those worries aside!

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Good social health doesn't mean being a people-pleaser. Try to be assertive and direct with the people who matter to you, and don't forget to take their needs into account as well.

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Don’t wait for birthdays to celebrate; it’s always a good time to send a card or connect in person. Make a regular habit of complimenting and thanking people whenever you get the opportunity.

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Strong, healthy relationships are important throughout your life, as they impact both your physical and mental health. Therefore, it's important to know what a healthy relationship looks like and how to keep your connections supportive.

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It's important to know the right way to argue. Relationships can thrive when people know how to successfully deal with conflict.

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You may only be able to manage a certain number of social events, so make sure that you only commit to things that are actually good for you and that won't leave you feeling more exhausted in the end.

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If you're not sensitive to other people's emotions, chances are you might be missing signals they’re giving you about what they need as a friend or family member.

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Volunteering can give you a sense of self-worth and connect you to other people. Consider joining a local group focused on an activity you enjoy or one that you’d like to learn more about.

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No one wants to be judged, criticized or blamed, and if those dynamics are present, it can indicate an unhealthy relationship.

Sources: (Medium) (SocialSelf)

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Make it a habit to disconnect from technology every day and spend face-to-face time with family, friends, and even your colleagues.

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Try to incorporate something to improve your social health every day. This might be something small, such as texting "hello" to a friend, or a larger event such as a weekly meetup.

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Being active with others in your community can have a positive effect on your health and create opportunities to connect.

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Hobbies are an important part of building your social health. Even solitary activities can usually help you meet other like-minded people.

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Be thankful for what you have, what you can do, and the people in your life. If you focus solely on what’s missing, you’ll miss out on all the awesome people already in your social circle. Plus, you won't be as open to meeting new people.

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When you arrive on time, you demonstrate that you respect and value others. Don’t keep people waiting.

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Most people dread small talk, but it's an essential part of forming connections and friendships with new people and improving your social health.

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Communicate in person whenever possible. Consider taking a class in communication skills if you believe yours need some improvement.

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Some people are unkind or actively harmful to your mental and social health. It can be difficult to distance yourself from toxic people, but it's important to do so for your well-being.

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Researchers have found that healthy relationships can have powerful effects on our health. So whether it's with friends, family, co-workers, or romantic partners, look for ways to get social.

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Be proactive with your social wellness! When you make a plan to connect with others, put it in your calendar and you'll be more likely to follow through.

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Having great social health includes making sure that you have the energy to share in social situations. When you take care of yourself, it improves your relationship with others as well.

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People who are uncomfortable being alone can find themselves spending time with people who don’t actually make them feel good about themselves. Being happy alone can actually help you to improve your social health.

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Even when we’ve found our tribe, we still need to put some effort into nurturing and strengthening those relationships. Make sure you devote time and energy to your friendships.

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There's great value in smiling and remembering people by their first names. When you use someone’s name, you show them respect and attention.

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Many of us will end up becoming a caregiver at some point in our lives. The stress of caregiving can take a toll on your health. Therefore, find self-care strategies that work for you.

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Improving your social health isn't always about being more social. Test out which kind of social interaction, and how much of it, is right for you.

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Social wellness doesn't mean you need to be social all the time. Social situations can do more harm than good if you don’t feel that your boundaries are respected. Having good boundaries helps you get the most out of your relationships.

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When things get difficult, many of us want to withdraw and deal with it alone. But if your emotional and mental health is suffering, withdrawing can harm your social health further. Instead, lean on the people around you during difficult times.