"That's a moai!" has become a common phrase to acknowledge a healthy group activity in our Blue Zones community. The significance of being identified as a "moai" implies that an activity shared with others benefits your well-being. Some moais form naturally, and others are created intentionally. Beach Cities Health District's Blue Zones Project has fostered connections for community members into moais since 2011. Over the years, more than 2,000 people have formed groups to provide a social support system through activities such as walking, potlucks and purpose discussions. You are part of a movement to support making the healthy choice easier for yourself and others. You are receiving this quarterly newsletter because you have participated in a healthy group activity or have expressed interest in participating.

Social connectedness holds great value for your health and well-being. According to Nicholas Christakis and James Fowler (2008), having social connections is helpful to a person's happiness only if the social connections are happy themselves. Furthermore, one person's happiness has ripple effects on his or her friends' level of happiness. Take a moment to reflect on how your social connections make you feel. We hope you will continue to share your happiness with Blue Zones Project by taking an active role in moais, volunteering or simply sharing the value of connecting with new and old friends.

If you are interested in sharing your moai experience, please contact Tiana Rideout, Community Health Programs Coordinator, at tiana.rideout@bchd.org. We would like to hear how these social connections support your happiness!