Most days I can’t wait to go to bed so I can wake up and have coffee. And I drink decaf! It’s not about the caffeine for me, it’s about the ritual. Adding the grinds and the water the same way every morning and releasing that coffee scent sort of calms me. Then the predictability of that warm cup in my hand becomes something I can count on. It’s a new day and the smell and the taste signal a fresh start. Now I know that’s putting a lot on one stinking cup of coffee but right now, we can’t count on many things being the same as they usually are. Maybe that’s why I’m clinging to my coffee cup every morning for dear life. Like everyone else, there are certain things that I wish were the same as they were before the pandemic.

We just celebrated our new book during a dual book launch with Anne Baum and I realized one of the things I want back is people. When our first guest walked through the doors of Bell Gate Farm, I started to cry (that’s when a mask comes in handy!). The tears were backed up by a boatload of emotions. To be honest, I don’t even think I realized how much I’ve been missing connecting and gathering. But boy have I been missing it.

We were so torn about whether to have this event or not. Even considered cancelling right up until the day before. We certainly didn’t want to be irresponsible in any way. But we also wanted to support the women owned businesses we invited and so with layer upon layer of COVID restrictions, we decided to go ahead.

When each person came in, we had to stop ourselves from hugging them and getting too close but still, the connection was there. The human connection we need and miss so much is so vital right now. Thank you to everyone who came out and smiled behind your masks. We could see it in your eyes. It was a dose of inspiration that is helping to fuel the patience we need for the next leg of all of this. So tomorrow, when I cling to my coffee, I will remember what we all felt-the joy of just being together!

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By nature, we are inherently social beings that require connection to survive. While we all know that caring for our bodies and minds through healthy habits is important, establishing and maintaining social connections with others is proving to be even more important.

Studies show that a lack of human connection can be more harmful to our physical health than obesity, smoking and high blood pressure. In addition, when we are lonely, we are more vulnerable to anxiety, depression, and a wide range of illnesses.

On the flip side, studies show that positive social connection can lower anxiety and depression, and actually improve our immune systems. We need these positive benefits now more than ever! So what constitutes positive social connection?

When it comes to social connections, research shows that quality is more important than quantity. Experts say if you want to lead a happy and healthy life, establishing and maintaining strong ties with trustworthy people is of essence. Studies prove (and common sense concurs) that the strongest social connections are the ones we share with people who are concerned about our happiness and well-being. Our social connections should provide us with hope and inspiration.

Research shows that people who engage in positive social connection tend to be more empathic, cooperative, and trusting. Because of this, other people tend to be more trusting, cooperative, and open towards them. This shows that having positive social connections creates a positive feedback loop of physical, emotional, and social well-being.

Studies show that friendships and social connections provide intellectual stimulation and emotional support through hardships. Stress and isolation can be particularly challenging, especially in times of social distancing. People who provide you with a sense of belonging, love or value can be buffers against stress.

Staying connected, either in person or virtually, can help ease stress, reduce suffering and promote overall wellness. If you are struggling to stay connected during the pandemic, please reach out to us, as we are always happy to provide positive social connection!

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