Lets talk about Connection…
Mindfulness has been shown to increase feelings of connection within ourselves and with others. As humans we are social beings and the absence of social connection breeds loneliness and can lead to a decline of the human body and mind. Connection is a major factor that impacts both happiness and well-being.
In Canada the Canadian Index of Well-being looks at areas that increase life and health satisfaction and social connections have been identified as an important contributor to such.
So how does mindfulness impact connection? Mindfulness can improve both self compassion and compassion for others. Helping you to connect from your most authentic self. Mindful awareness practices help us to focus on being in the present moment when engaging in social interactions and help us to listen actively learning to give our undivided attention to the relationship at hand.
I spent the last 18 months struggling with some health challenges and was feeing isolated, missing social connections and feeling out of touch with myself and my body. Sure we all did our best to stay connected with technology and I am so grateful and privledged to have had my family and close friends, but it just wasn’t the same. I was drifting through the days longing to feel that human connection again.
I recently attended my first one day yoga retreat with @yoganomads (if you are local in the area I would absolutely suggest checking them out). Connection was at the forefront of our day and the connection I felt was overwhelming, so big, so beautiful and long awaited. We were all gathered as one, safely sharing this space and you could feel the connection in the air. I started thinking about what connection meant to me.
Connection gives purpose, its not what we have or do. its what gives us a sense of belonging, a community. A community is somewhere you are welcomed with open arms and invited to stay, to rest and just be yourself. Accepted just as you have arrived, without judgment. Your heart is full of love and compassion. You feel this pure, genuine love filling your heart and this burning in your belly. You think to yourself, you are complete, whole and grounded. You are light and movement in your body comes with ease. You know this connection, this is where you belong. This is your community and you are right where you are supposed to be. All of the tension, brokenness and dis- ease you have felt rolls away like clouds floating by. Your focus and clarity returns and you are left with this beautiful big open sky.
Connection allows you the courage to be vulnerable, to open up to your pain and move through it to heal. Connection allows you to step into your courage, let the next chapter of your journey unfold and boldly step into your power. So take the risks, share your story, and cultivate calm.
As I sat there in silence after a guided meditation I picked up A Gentle Reminder by Bianca Sparacino and read:
I hope you have the courage to believe that genuine connection still exists. And I hope you have the courage to stand up for that, to open yourself to it when you start to feel it bloom within the heart of you. I hope you have the courage to appreciate it for all that it is, to not approach it wearing a mask, to not try to desensitize yourself to it or play it cool. Please, I hope you have the courage to crash your heart into the people life gifts you. I hope you have the courage to believe that goodness still exists, that there are those who have the capacity to love the way you do, that there are those who will see you and grow you and teach you more about the world. I hope you have the courage to fight for connection. I hope you have the courage to go deeper. To never exist on the surface of your life, even if it’s easier or more convenient. At the end of the day you should leave this world with a heart that is worn out and soft all over. A heart that is bruised from loving and feeling, and caring in the best possible way. At the end of the day, you should be proud of your inability to be anything but open to the world. You should be proud of who you are. ..
I was connected to myself and others, I was fulfilled. Adding mindful meditation and mindful movement practices to your day can help you achieve greater well-being and a sense of connection.
Ways to Connect
Healthy relationships can provide us with support and balance and can give meaning to our lives, so strengthen your circle! Choose who you spend your time with, set boundaries and be intentional about who you connect with. Make an effort to truly see someone and give them your attention, hold space for them.
We are not meant to do hard things alone, be there for someone- help them carry their load
Actively listen
Be vulnerable, speak from your heart
Set the intention to truly connect with a friend
Nourish your relationships, put some effort into it
Foster a sense of belonging
Create a safe inclusive environment
Embrace empathy
Volunteer
Slow down and be present
Do something that makes you happy
Try something new
Find a new hobby or activity
Journal or try mindful movement such as yoga
Meditation is a great mindful practice to get started with if your feeling isolated or lonely. This 20 minute meditation cultivates inner and outer connection @mindful.org
Reach out to a counsellor or psychotherapist if you need extra support
