There are numerous cultures and subcultures I am a part of, including my nationality and occupation. I am a mother of two, born and raised in India, and I am currently a nursing student. While I am a part of the larger Indian culture, I am also a part of the smaller subculture of Indian immigrants to America. Furthermore, my occupation can also be considered a subculture, as it is where I spend a lot of my time and effort, and the people that surround me are often from the same profession.
Quality interpersonal communication is incredibly important to the development and maintenance of a healthy brain. Therefore, it is essential to manage time between one’s career goals and aspirations and leisurely social experiences. Spending time with people from the same cultures and subcultures can trigger a lot of positive emotions, while interacting with those from other cultures can be enriching and educating.
While there is not always a physical space for these interactions, especially during the pandemic, putting aside some time to engage in meaningful conversations and interactions is beneficial to mental health. I am a pretty big advocate for organized fun and socializing, as it allows people to mix with those whom they would not have interacted with otherwise.