The Power of Community: Why Wellness is Better Together
The Power of Community: Why Wellness is Better Together
I want to talk about something close to my heart—the incredible power of community when it comes to our wellness journeys. We often focus on things like working out, eating right and finding time to meditate. And while all that’s important, there’s one key piece of the puzzle we often overlook: community.
Why Community Matters for Wellness
Did you know that having a strong support network can actually make you live longer, feel happier, and recover from illnesses faster? It's true! According to research published in the Journal of Health and Social Behavior, people who have strong social ties experience all of these benefits and more. That sense of connection isn't just a feel-good bonus—it’s a core part of staying healthy .
Harvard researchers back this up, showing that strong relationships can delay memory loss, reduce the risk of heart disease, and even lower the chances of dying early. The takeaway? Being part of a community isn’t just about fun and games. It’s about your health and well-being on a deep level .
How Connection Calms the Nervous System
Let’s talk about your nervous system for a second. Dr. Stephen Porges, who came up with the Polyvagal Theory, has found that being around people we trust and care about actually calms our nervous system. This helps us shift from "fight or flight" mode into a state where we can relax and heal. It's fascinating stuff, and it really highlights how our bodies are wired for connection .
On top of that, Dr. Julianne Holt-Lunstad’s research shows that feeling isolated can be as bad for your health as smoking or being obese. But the flip side is that being part of a community can actually protect you from stress and make you healthier overall .
Building Emotional Resilience Together
If you've ever felt stronger after sharing your struggles with someone, you're not alone. Brené Brown says it best: “Connection is why we’re here; it is what gives purpose and meaning to our lives.” When we let ourselves be vulnerable and connect with others, we build resilience. Dr. Gabor Maté also points out that while isolation can make trauma and addiction worse, connection can help us heal .
Tips for Building Connection and Community
Creating meaningful connections doesn’t require grand gestures—small, consistent efforts can have a profound impact. Here are some simple, research-backed practices to help you build a strong sense of community:
Engage in Active Listening: Truly listen when someone speaks. This means focusing entirely on them, understanding their words, and showing empathy. Active listening not only deepens your relationships but also makes others feel valued and heard.
Join a Group or Class: Regularly attending a group or class fosters a sense of belonging. Whether it’s a fitness class, a book club, or a community workshop, consistency in shared activities helps form lasting bonds.
Make Time in Your Routine to Connect with Others: Prioritise time in your schedule for regular catch-ups with friends or family. Even a quick coffee or a walk together can strengthen connections and enhance your sense of belonging.
Practice Vulnerability: Being open about your thoughts and feelings can be intimidating, but it’s essential for building deeper connections. As Brené Brown highlights, vulnerability is the key to forging authentic, meaningful relationships.
Reach Out for Help, Even When It’s Hard: Asking for help can be challenging, but it’s a crucial part of building trust and connection. Whether it’s advice or emotional support, reaching out shows that you value the relationship.
Be Grateful to Others: Expressing gratitude for the people in your life strengthens your bond with them. A simple thank-you note or verbal acknowledgment can make others feel appreciated and deepen your connection.
Help Others in Need: Offering support to someone else not only helps them but also enhances your own sense of community. It’s a reminder that we’re all in this together, and sometimes, giving is the best way to receive.
Remember, when it comes to building community, it’s about quality over quantity. Deep, meaningful connections with a few people can be far more fulfilling than superficial ties with many. It’s all about finding a balance between giving and receiving—both are essential for creating a true sense of belonging.
Why We Centre Community in Brave Connect
Given how vital community is to our well-being, it’s at the heart of everything we do here at Brave Move. Our Brave Connect programme is all about bringing people together. Over six months, we’ll meet for in-person Mind-Body Master Classes where we’ll learn, grow and support each other. You’ll experience the kind of connection that can truly transform your wellness journey.
Community really is the secret sauce to lasting wellness. When we support each other, amazing things happen.
Want to build your community with the Brave Move family? Then check out our weekly classes and 6 month programmes.