Social distancing – finding our way forward

THE HUMAN CONNECTION

As humans we naturally have a deep instinct to connect with others, socialise, eat, find joy and seek purpose in the things we do. Innately we are wired to form relationships and connection in our lives. We often are dependent on the seemly simple but vital factors in our life, such as our relationships and our social connections for our happiness and well-being.

OUR NEW NORMAL

As we currently feel and see much emerging global change in the world and around us. This brings much uncertainty into our lives and usual routines. During the ever-present Covid-19 pandemic we are needing to live and behave very differently out of necessity. To help ensure and support a positive outcome.

THE DISTANCING EFFECT

We are genetically wired to live in groups or be with others. This is an ancient primal instinct we have, developed to allow a greater chance for species survival. In extraordinary times we are needing to practice the opposite. Naturally this is challenging, and it is normal for us to find it difficult.

In areas of the worlds that are called blue zones, such as Japan, Greek Islands and Costa Rica, the lifespan is predominately much longer than anywhere else. These certain areas always share the same common traits, high social connection, strong family interaction, sense of purpose and a wholefood-based diet & lifestyle. All of these are the seemly successful ingredients for longevity.

FINDING OUR EMOTIONAL HAPPINESS

Our social connections commonly allow for touch, laughter, perspective and have deeper meanings to us. Finding time to re-connect in whatever way we can and is possible, also is a vital part of our emotional health. Video chatting, calling and our digital interactions are more important than ever to us. A way of connecting and seeing others that are important part of our emotional health.

IN TIMES OF STRESS

The human ability to adapt can be great. Under stress we can feel that we will not survive or get through, we can find ourselves adapting and forming resilience (the capacity to recover from difficulties). At times our stressful situations and trying circumstances help us find deeper reserves and resilience that help sustain us and act as emotional reservoirs over our lifetime. However constant stress that is unrelenting is not helpful for us and can do the opposite.

 FINDING WAYS FORWARD

New ways often result in giving us a renewed sense of purpose, to re-evaluate how we live our life & find out what is important for us going ahead. Some of the positive effects of enduring stress can go on to benefit us in the longer-term. Essential nutrients found in plant-based foods, spirulina, algae omega 3, and probiotics, also act to support our everyday health, mood and immunity.

Finding ways of coping through adversity and challenges can help us adapt to trying times. Letting ourselves find it difficult and acknowledging the struggles and hardships within it can also help. Reaching out to those in your bubble or outside of that via a phone call or a video chat or with known support groups can also be of help for us as we navigate the new path ahead. Finding support where we might least expect it is common as we all go through it together and can help give us a renewed sense of belief and connection.