Instant Genius Why social connection is vital for our health and well-being
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Dec 19, 2025 
Dr. Ben Rein, a neuroscientist and author at Stanford University, explores the crucial role of social connection in our lives. He reveals how our brains release feel-good chemicals like oxytocin and dopamine during interactions, highlighting their importance for health. Rein discusses the spectrum of introversion and extroversion, emphasizing individualized social approaches. He warns of the health risks of isolation and shares simple practices—like compliments and emotional cues—that can enhance our social bonds and combat loneliness in the digital age.
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Brains Wired For Group Survival
- Humans evolved social reward systems that make connection feel good and promote group survival.
- Ben Rein links these systems to neurotransmitters that encourage us to stick together for safety and cooperation.
Powerful Chemistry Behind Bonding
- Oxytocin, dopamine and serotonin combine during social bonding to strongly reinforce connection.
- Rein compares oxytocin-driven brain activity to MDMA to illustrate how powerful social interactions feel.
Match Social Dose To Your Battery
- Introversion and extroversion likely reflect differences in how rewarding social interaction is and how quickly social energy depletes.
- Rein advises matching social intake to your personal 'battery' rather than forcing one-size-fits-all social schedules.