Wellness@Work : 10 ways to greet strangers 

The lonely days of the COVID-19 pandemic weren’t all that long ago. Whether it’s the lingering effects of social distancing or an increasingly digital world, the World Health Organization recently declared loneliness as a global public health concern — one that has been described to be as bad as smoking 15 cigarettes a day. 

Expanding your social circle or taking up a new hobby are some examples of how you can be less isolated. But combating loneliness can be as simple as greeting strangers.  

This month, Chaplain Kim Crawford Meeks wrote about this in her Meaningful Reflections column, and she referenced a study conducted by a team of psychologists at Sabanci University in Turkey and the University of Sussex in the U.K. that found greeting strangers can boost feelings of life satisfaction. 

Greeting strangers can vary depending on the context and culture, but here are some general tips to connect: 

• Smile. A genuine smile can make you appear friendly and approachable. 
• Make eye contact. This shows confidence and interest in the other person. 
• Use a simple greeting. Depending on the situation, you can say: “Hello!” or “Good morning/afternoon/evening!” 
• Introduce yourself. If appropriate, follow up with your name. For example, “Hi, I’m [Your Name].” 
• Use open body language. Stand or sit with an open posture, avoiding crossed arms, to convey friendliness. 
• Ask a simple question. This can help to initiate a conversation, such as: “How’s your day going?” or “What brings you here today?” 
• Be mindful of cultural norms. In some cultures, a handshake is common, while in others, a nod or bow might be more appropriate. 
• Be respectful of personal space. Maintain a comfortable distance to avoid making the other person feel uneasy. 
• Listen and respond. If the stranger engages in conversation, be attentive and respond appropriately. 
• Be polite. Use polite language and expressions, such as “please” and “thank you,” when appropriate. 

About the author: Michelle Ryan, an E-RYT 200 yoga teacher and fitness instructor, works as a marketing specialist for USA Health.    

How can you lead a longer, better life? Follow weekly Wellness@Work tips from USA Health Integrative Health and Wellness. We cover ways you can eat better, move better, be more mindful, and find more balance to support your optimal health and well-being. Learn more at https://www.usahealthsystem.com/wellness.