Connection

Hey - is anyone else feeling lonely and kind of uneasy nowadays?  One of the biggest challenges people have been facing during this time is isolation.  People are social creatures.  We are not meant to live in isolation. In fact, our survival has depended on working interdependently. The current worldwide pandemic situation has caused isolation instead of collaboration.  One consequence is being fearful of others. Instead of drawing on support within our communities, we are fearful of proximity to others.  

Human touch is essential for our wellbeing. Ancient practices of many cultures promote healing through massage, hair weaving, henna painting.  These promote balance and well being.  In my work with adults and with children, I teach a lot of workshops on communication and collaboration, how to identify our strengths and leverage those within the group.

Connection to others is essential to our sense of well being.  Anxiety and depression increase with isolation.  Because of the current situation it’s important to find new creative ways to connect with others.  Our previous go-tos for community: churches and temples, community activities, festivals, and even meeting at your local cafe may not be available to us right now. It is essential that you find ways to connect with others - whether it’s via zoom, phone or just meeting someone outside.  

Connection with others can lower our heart rate, boost out oxytocin and provide a general sense of well-being. Connecting with others signals to our nervous system that we are “safe” - it takes us out of the fight, flight, freeze cycle.

So even if you can’t participate in your regular bowling league, your yoga studio is closed or your church choir is on hold, reach out to a friend by text - meet up with someone outside, or smile and ask how the barista at your local Starbucks is doing when you drive by to pick up your coffee. Every little point of contact will boost your well being. Try it out !

Breathe. You got this.

Tamar