The Mediterranean diet, religion and exercise are all health-promoting and give a sense of belonging. David Minton talks about the health benefits of community

Many research studies have shown there’s a connection between like-minded people who meet regularly: they build up a bond and experience a sense of togetherness. Longitudinal research provides further evidence that these social groupings enjoy improved health and wellness.

Religious faiths have been proven to bolster mental health, wellbeing and happiness. Seventh-day Adventists in California, for example, live up to 10 years longer than average and the largest concentration has been classified as a Blue Zone of longevity.

This church specifically advocates exercise and vegetarianism and discourages consuming alcohol, tobacco and processed foods.

Rock-star instructors
Religion gives people part of their identity, but could this now also be focused on group exercise? Are religious congregations any more self-selecting than followers of the same GX instructor? All abide by a timetable, format and something special that keeps people coming back.

The rhythm of the indoor cycle class can become hypnotic and reassuringly fun with the added advantage of the endorphin rush. Rock-star instructors, like religious leaders, engender a feeling of belonging that encourages repeat visits.

In the light of the World Health Organization declaring loneliness a pressing global health threat, and with the US surgeon general saying its mortality effects are equivalent to smoking 15 cigarettes a day, both religion and exercise can make an impact and provide the individual with a sense of purpose and positivity.

Community is key
The Mediterranean diet first came to prominence in the 1960s and has been extensively studied with respect to its health benefits. However, The Nutrition Society and the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation say the Mediterranean lifestyle is just as important as the food. The diet itself accounts for around 50 per cent of the benefit, the rest extends to preparation, harvesting, sharing and socialising with family and friends.

Research from The National Lottery Community Fund, the largest funder of community activity in the UK, shows the pandemic helped to reignite people’s interest in their local community. Across the UK, almost 70 per cent of people now report feeling part of their local community and around one-third feel an increased sense of belonging. The research found priorities included reducing loneliness and isolation, supporting mental health, living healthily and well and community activities.

In the UK, 83.3 per cent of the population now lives within two miles of a physical activity provider, so the demand is there and thousands of research papers show the importance of community to people, so in 2024 and 2025, let’s make community building a priority.

David Minton is the founder of LeisureDB