Like links in a chain, Human Connection is what connects us and gives us the strength, power, and fulfillment we all are seeking.
Human Connection is an important part of our mental wellness and feeds into our need to feel heard, emotionally understood, and supported by someone. But when we dig deeper into Human Connection, we all strive for the same thing -Personal Connection.
We’ve all experienced the comfort that a big hug can bring and who doesn’t love a big hug, High five, or fist pump? Personal Connection facilitates real relationship building and makes life sweeter and less lonely.
In fact, studies have shown that people who have satisfying relationships are happier, have fewer health problems, and live longer compared to someone with a lack of social ties. Studies have linked this lack of Connection to depression, later-life cognitive decline, and increased mortality.
So what happens when the chain of Human Connection is broken?
Millions of people are feeling the effects of this lost Connection right now. Depression and suicides are on the rise. People feel isolated, not heard, and are yearning for that personal Connection that most took for granted before Covid-19.
Many people are locked behind closed doors, routines have changed, and the fear of spreading Coronavirus to elderly loved ones or those with compromised immune health has left many people alone.
Personal Connection is vital. The power of touch and a hug from another person is powerful and affects our mental, emotional, physical, and spiritual wellness.
While Zoom and video chat platforms allow us to see another person’s face and hear their voice. It still lacks the personal connection that facilitates real relationship building. Don’t get me wrong, it’s better than a phone call, but it still lacks the energy exchange, enthusiasm, and passion that a physical connection provides.
I’ve heard many young people say they are excited to go back to school because they want to see their friends in person. What about the elderly who live alone? Human Connection is essential, and technology, no matter how good, will not replace face-to-face encounters, hugs, and touching that we all crave.
There are ways to keep connected and see loved ones, whether it’s a family member or friend, without compromising health. Wear a mask, practice good hygiene, be respectful of others’ comfort levels, meet in the open air, and most importantly if you are not feeling well stay home and get the rest you need.
Remember that mental health is an important part of our overall wellness. If you are feeling alone, depressed and isolated because you are missing human connection -It’s time to reconnect in a way that makes you feel comfortable and safe.
“We are hardwired to connect with others, it’s what gives purpose and meaning to our lives, and without it, there is suffering.” – Brene Brown
Helpful Tips:
- To activate the brain by activating blood flow and firing up the electricity in the nervous system:
- Stimulate your whole face with your knuckles in a circular manner firmly but gently for 3 minutes or longer.
- Use diluted essential oils like Lavender to make it easy to move around.
***Make sure you trust the brand of essential oil before applying it to your skin or inhaling it. Many are synthetic and should not be used topically or aromatically.***
Grace Richardson, NCCA
In August 2021, my husband, Doug, daughter, Joanne and I got Covid19. Both Doug and Joanne developed respiratory issues that they felt would be relieved by going to the hospital. Little did I know that they would not be returning home. Doug passed away on September 8 and Joanne on September 12.
It was worse than a punch in the gut. My heart was shredded. I would have traded my life for my daughter's so her then 5 year old son could have his mom. Doug and Joanne were my support system in life and business. It felt like all my limbs were cut off one limb at a time! But for God....
The pain was excruciating.
I lost 20+ lbs. I looked and felt horrible. Sagging jowls, wrinkled skin... I had aged at least 10 years! The loss of Doug and Joanne 4 days apart was more than I could bear and it showed. Seeing myself in the mirror scared me. I had to turn my attention back to my health. The grief caused havoc to my internal organs from lack of proper nutrition, hydration, extreme stress, lack of sleep, and consistent emotional distress. I was in trouble. Unless the internal and emotional issues are attended to first, anything I do externally will be temporary and may even be ineffective.
As a Certified Clinical Aromatherapist and Face Reflexologist, I had the tools to restore my health and ultimately my appearance. I created aromatherapy blends and face reflexology points to address my internal and emotional issues. Pain is inevitable, but misery is optional!
My success in restoring myself gave birth to my Beauty. After. Ashes. -Healing Gracefully Method. Today, I am focused on helping women who have experienced loss, trauma or grief, teaching them that there is life after devastation and the good news is it's in our very own hands and through our faith that God is real and He is faithful.
