I talk with a lot of people now from all walks of life—different ages, different financial and relationship issues. And what I see is that what all of us deeply yearn for is connection. It’s not anything new, but it does feel especially potent right now because I see it and talk about it for hours every day.
I talk with young adults who are struggling to find their special person. I talk with couples who struggle to feel connected to their partner. I talk with parents who want their children to just be happy and not be bullied or feel inadequate. I talk with parents of adult children who feel disconnected and bewildered about how to talk with their children, who are so precious to them. I talk with people in transitions, such as retirement and empty nesting, who are struggling to feel a sense of purpose.
Luckily, my work as a yoga therapist over the years has given me some deep-rooted skills in helping people feel connected to their bodies and thought processes—to learn to become mindful. This is truly the first step in being able to connect with others.
It isn’t an easy first step. Being able to answer questions like, “What am I feeling in my body?” “Am I able to still my mind so that I can really listen?” “Is my heart really open to both the giving AND receiving in a relationship?”
Feeling disconnected and lonely isn’t good for our mental or physical health.
What I’d like to remind us is that if you are lonely, reach out to someone. Chances are (unless they are the parent of busy children), they are looking for connection too.
Each one of us was born noble, and our lives are threads in the tapestry of our communities. How we live our deepest values matters. Some days are easier than others. On the hard days, notice your breath, reach out to someone, and remember that you are worthy of love!
Love,
Nancy