In a May 2025 interview with The Independent, Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg proposed that artificial intelligence could help alleviate the growing loneliness epidemic by providing personalised virtual companionship. His vision involves AI-powered chatbots that offer emotional support and help reduce feelings of isolation.

However, many psychologists argue that AI can’t replicate the depth and reciprocity of genuine human relationships. Neuroimaging and recent research show that loneliness and depression activate parts of the brain associated with physical pain. As social beings, we crave meaningful connection and interaction with others.

Several studies have emphasised that the quality of social interactions matters just as much as their frequency. Meaningful conversations with close friends, or even strangers, can significantly reduce feelings of loneliness.

When the brain lacks social stimulation, the body often suffers too. In The Immune Mind, Dr Monty Lyman explores how the brain, immune system, and gut microbiome form an interconnected triangle. Every mental health condition has a physical component, and every physical condition has a mental one. Too often, people seeking help are dismissed or given narrow diagnoses that don’t reflect their full needs.

Recently, mindfulness and meditation have gained attention for encouraging presence and calm, qualities that can feel rare in today’s fast-paced world. A study involving 157 people with ADHD found that practising body scan meditation 1-2 times per week helped manage symptoms like overthinking, rejection sensitivity, and hyperactivity.

And honestly — children might be the best teachers of mindfulness. I can’t count how many times I’ve found myself staring at a spider’s web, a passing rubbish truck, or a snail crawling along, purely for the joy of it, because my children noticed it. When I meet them on their mental level and join them in those small, present moments, I feel that same spark of joy. It reminds me why I chose to have children in the first place: not to think about them while doing other things, but to be with them.

I discovered yoga by accident years ago while promoting my sushi-making events. After one session, the anxiety I carried around with me noticeably eased, and I’ve practised ever since (with the occasional break). This past year, I’ve committed to at least one class per week, and I’m proud of that. The connection between our mental and physical health is clearer than ever.

Activities like sound baths are also gaining attention for their therapeutic effects. Researchers have looked into the effects of Tibetan singing bowl meditation and found that it significantly reduced perceptions of anxiety, tension, and physical pain, while improving mood and overall wellbeing. Participants found they felt more relaxed and spiritually uplifted after the sessions, suggesting that sound meditation could be a simple, low-cost way to support mental and emotional health.

Other ways to nurture yourself? More studies are confirming the benefits of journalling and practising gratitude. Regularly expressing gratitude, whether by writing down things you’re thankful for, filling a gratitude jar, or simply telling someone what you appreciate about them may strengthen relationships and boosts overall wellbeing. It doesn’t have to be complicated: a note, a kind word, or a letter to someone special can be powerful.

We don’t need AI companions to beat loneliness. We need each other. The simplest, real moments of connection — whether it’s a conversation, a yoga class, or watching a snail!

The Mind-Body Connection: Why Real Human Interaction Still Matters More Than AI