5 Health Perks of Staying Single

5 Health Perks of Staying Single

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Staying single—is it just dodging the drama of relationships, or could there be more to it? We’ve all heard about the joys of partnership, marriage, and starting a family, but what about flying solo? Turns out, there might be some surprising upsides to the single life. We’re gonna dive into that!

Benefits of Staying Single Health and Mental Well-Being

Okay, let’s be real, relationships can be… a lot. They can seriously impact your well-being. But hey, being single? It’s got its perks too. Here’s what we’ve found:

Maintaining a Healthy Weight

Is it possible that single people have better control over their weight and, therefore, better bodies compared to those who are married? Well, according to science…

Body Mass Index (BMI) is a way to figure out if your weight is healthy based on your height. It’s calculated by dividing your weight in kilograms by your height in meters squared. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) says a BMI between 18.5 and 24.9 is considered a healthy weight, which is good for keeping diseases at bay.

A BMI of 25.0 to 29.9? That means you’re overweight. And 30.0 or higher means you’re dealing with obesity, and more specifically significant obesity.

Studies show single folks tend to eat healthier than those in relationships. Now, it’s not all sunshine and roses. Singletons might not exercise as much or take care of themselves as well as their coupled-up counterparts, but, generally, single individuals seem to maintain more control of their body weight.

Also, there appears to be a difference in BMI between single and married people.

Research suggests that a higher BMI increases the risk of health problems, like:

  • Heart issues.
  • Type 2 diabetes.
  • Breathing problems.
  • Fertility issues.
  • Certain cancers.

It’s vital to consider that single living may come with its own set of challenges in maintaining overall wellness. Loneliness, for instance, can affect diet and activity levels. Exploring options such as joining fitness groups or participating in community events can help build a support network, thereby promoting healthy habits and emotional well-being.

Boosting Psychological Well-Being

Another upside of being single? It can really boost your mental game. For example, a study comparing single and married people showed:

  • Single people who cherish their independence often feel a greater sense of accomplishment and satisfaction with life.
  • Singles often enjoy more personal growth and self-sufficiency.
  • Singles tend to experience fewer negative emotions, and are generally better at managing stress compared to those who are married.
  • Singles are more likely to engage in activities that promote their personal growth and self-improvement than their married peers.

Enhancing Creativity and Innovation

Several studies indicate that if you’re happy being single, without feeling lonely, you’re more likely to be creative. Sounds good to me!

Being single can amp up your creativity because:

  • It frees you up from feeling obliged to meet expectations.
  • It encourages you to try new things.
  • You can build confidence in yourself rather than relying on someone else.

Increasing Social Connections

Single people often have wider social circles, offering them increased support compared to those in a relationship. We’ve noticed how often singles enjoy a larger number of social activities, which is a huge positive.

One study looked at relationships between relatives and friends in the United States. The findings showed that singles are more likely to stay in touch and offer help to friends, family, and neighbors more than those who are married.

Staying connected with close friends and family is great for your health and can even help you live longer—talk about a win-win!

Improving Your Fitness

People who are in committed relationships or married sometimes slack off when it comes to physical fitness. According to research published in the Journal of Marriage and Family, single people tend to spend less time in physical activity.

It turns out single people sleep, on average, about 8 hours and 3 minutes on weeknights, while married men sleep only about 4 hours and 47 minutes. Similarly, single women get roughly 5 hours and 25 minutes of sleep while married women only sleep around 4 hours each night.

The bottom line? Physical activity and sticking to a sleep schedule can help you stay fit, manage your weight, and reduce your risk of heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and certain cancers. Plus, you’ll just feel better!

Ways to Deal With Boredom When Single

Okay, so how do you tackle boredom if you’re riding solo? Here are some ideas to get you started:

  • Explore what makes you truly happy, whether it’s a hobby or a place.
  • Pamper yourself with something new.
  • Commit to a fitness routine to boost your physical health.
  • Carve out specific times for relaxation and fun.
  • Spend a day or two each week with friends for some social enjoyment.
  • Spend time with people you love often whether they’re friends or family.

Key takeaways

  • The freedom to pursue hobbies and interests without compromise.
  • Stronger bonds with friends and family.
  • More time for personal growth and self-discovery.

FAQ, Myth & Facts

Is it selfish to choose being single over being in a relationship?

Not at all! Choosing to be single is a personal decision, just like choosing to be in a relationship. What matters most is that you’re making a choice that aligns with your own happiness and well-being.

Will I be lonely if I stay single?

Loneliness isn’t exclusive to single people. It’s about the quality of your connections, not the quantity. Many single people have fulfilling social lives and strong support networks.

Is it harder to build a career as a single person?

Not necessarily. Being single can actually give you more time and flexibility to focus on your career goals. You have fewer obligations, so you can invest more energy into your professional life.

Testimonials

I spent years jumping from one relationship to another, always feeling like something was missing. It wasn’t until I took some time to be single that I really started to understand myself. I discovered passions I never knew I had, and I built friendships that are deeper and more meaningful than any romantic relationship I’ve been in. I’m truly content with my life now.

After my divorce, I thought I needed to find someone new right away. But a friend suggested I try being single for a while, and it was the best advice I’ve ever received. I learned to enjoy my own company, and I finally felt in control of my life again. I’m not opposed to being in a relationship someday, but I’m no longer looking for someone to complete me.

Being single has given me the freedom to say ‘yes’ to opportunities I would’ve missed if I were tied down. I’ve traveled to places I’ve always dreamed of, I’ve taken up new hobbies, and I’ve met incredible people along the way. My life is richer and more fulfilling than I ever imagined.

So, all things considered, it seems staying single isn’t just about avoiding relationship drama; it could be a path to a healthier, happier, and more creative you. And, from personal experience, I’ve found that embracing the single life has allowed me to reconnect with old friends and explore new hobbies. Who knew flying solo could be so good for the soul?

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