Being in love might be the “best feeling in the world”, but while there are studies that link romance to good health, recent reports have revealed a slew of perks for single ladies too. Here are some health benefits of flying solo.
Being in love might be the “best feeling in the world”, but while there are studies that link romance to good health, recent reports have revealed a slew of perks for single ladies too. Here are some health benefits of flying solo.
More me time
Spending time alone is never a bad idea, but if you’re attached, you’ll sometimes need to work your schedule around that of your partner’s or put his needs before yours –and there goes your precious me time. According to a study by Birkbeck’s Department of Organizational Psychology, quality me time can do wonders for your pscyhological well-being and can even make you a more engaged employee.
More time to exercise
Not having to squeeze in QT with a partner means more time you can spend working out, so it’s no surprise that a study involving 13,500 people found that singles of any age and gender spent more time exercising than their married counterparts.
When you exercise, your body releases chemicals called endorphins, which can trigger positive feelings, making you feel more energised and physically and mentally healthier.
More socially connected
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, singles actually spend more time –about 12 minutes a day –socialising, whereas married people dedicate only 7.8 minutes a day.
Also, while those in relationships have one person who supports and encourages them, single people tend to have multiple cheerleaders. A 2015 study found that single people are more likely to have a larger support network of friends and family to reach out to, and are also more likely to get help from them than those who are attached.
More sleep
A survey by Amerisleep found that singles get an average of 7.13 hours of sleep every night, while those attached and married only get 7.07 hours and 6.71 hours, respectively. If you think missing out on sleep for sex is OK, a study by Oxford Economics revealed that getting a good night’s sleep is actually more important than having sex when it comes to personal wellness. Those who are well-rested also tend to have healthier hearts, a lower BMI and more energy overall.
More determined and fulfilled
It’s time to banish the old myth that single people are unhappy and lonely. According to psychologist Bella DePaulo of California Santa Barbara, singles have heightened feelings of self-determination and are more likely to experience more psychological growth. She also adds that singles who are self-suffiicient are less likely to have negative emotions.
Singles get an average of 7.13 hours of sleep a night, while those attached or married only get an average of 7.07 hours and 6.71 hours, respectively.
Images 123RF.com Text Cheryl Lim.
