We are going on over 10 months now of a global pandemic – an unprecedented year that has brought ups, downs, changes, and trials of our mental fortitude. We are working from home, have become teachers to our young children, upended our ‘normal’ routine, and participated in more Zoom meetings than we ever thought possible. Maybe our fitness regimen has also taken a hit, or we are not eating as well as we should.
We know a good exercise routine and healthy eating habits are crucial to our overall wellness. But what about other aspects of overall wellness? Specifically, in the quarantined and isolated world in which we currently live, what has happened to our social connections with others? There is extensive research demonstrating the importance of true, authentic human connection: developing deep interpersonal relationships and a network of friendships is vitally important for our social and emotional well-being.
Here are some tips on how we can maintain these important social connections in such a socially distant world.
Be a good listener, but be proactive too. Active listening takes attention and practice. When you are listening, try not to be distracted. Show the person you are listening by reframing their statement and asking interested questions. You can be proactive by reaching out to a friend who you have not heard from in awhile, or who you feel may be struggling.
Put the phone down. “Phubbing” (a play on the words phone snubbing), or using your phone mid conversation, is becoming more commonplace. Put the phone in your pocket or leave it in the car, and enjoy an honest, face-to-face conversation with someone. Add coffee for effectiveness.
Be resourceful. You do not even have to ask a friend how they are doing. Send them a meme, the latest Spotify recommendation you think they might enjoy, a small gift card in the mail, or a simple text telling them you miss them. You can even set yourself a calendar reminder to do these. A little kind act goes a long way.
Get active. Pair your activity and social connections together by asking a friend to go on a walk or play a sport with you.
Ask how you can help. We are all busy and stressed, and finding time to shop or even eat can be challenging. Reach out to your friends; ask them if you can do their grocery shopping for them or cook them a meal. Or even better, just do it and surprise them with it.
As therapist and motivations speaker Sean Stephenson said, “Communication is merely an exchange of information, but connection is an exchange of our humanity.” One of our basic human desires is to feel like we matter—like we are a part of something that is bigger than ourselves. Be a part of that ripple effect in the greater community. Be proactive about checking on your neighbors and helping them out. Showing someone you truly care may be one of the best ways to strengthen human connection in these challenging times.
Be well, friends.
Taryn Everett is the owner of Anchored PT and Wellness and a Doctor of Physical Therapy for over 10 years. She is also a CrossFit coach, Certified Nutrition Coach, and Lymphedema Specialist.