Stay Connected!

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Hi,

If you’ve been following me on social media, you’ve probably noticed I’m passionate about connection and community. We’ve never needed both more than we do right now.

But physical distancing, masks and now the cold weather continue to get in the way. Maybe your favourite way of connecting with your community isn’t even open to you right now.

Don’t give up. Connecting is important.

Recent studies at Stanford Medicine showed that people who feel connected to others have lower levels of anxiety and depression and higher self-esteem. They also have greater empathy for others and are more trusting.

In fact, connection has positive impacts on our social, emotional and physical well-being.

So, what can connection even look like today, when it’s more challenging to connect than it ever has been?

Start by connecting with yourself. How are you doing? You’re not alone if you’re feeling anxious, unsure or even angry. We went through a lot in 2020. It’s also OK to not know exactly how you’re feeling about all the loss and uncertainty.

Connecting with yourself could look like taking a few minutes each day to just sit and watch the snow fall or the Christmas lights twinkle. Or spending time reflecting on what you’re grateful for. Or maybe it’s about moving, being physically active, getting outside. Whether it’s one or all of these things, or something completely different, I hope you’ll take the time to do it.

If you’re feeling connected to yourself you’re more likely to want to connect with others.

Depending on the restrictions where you live, connecting might look like a text, a phone call, a zoom call, or a physically distanced walk.

Here’s a few additional ways to keep the social connection going despite the obstacles:

  • mail cards or letters to let people know you’re thinking about them
  • sign up for live online workshops and learn something new
  • participate in a virtual exercise or dance classes and invite a friend to do the same
  • start or join a virtual book club

If this is overwhelming and you’d like some help figuring it out, let’s do it together.

Until next time, stay well and stay connected!

-Elizabeth