Connecting well

 

Making connections with others has more of an impact on your health than you might think.

 

As a human, you are wired for connection. It's a key part of human survival.

 

But in an increasingly digital and frantic world, connection is disappearing. People are eating together less and taking part in fewer social activities. Even before COVID, more people than ever before were saying they were lonely.

 

Social isolation and loneliness cause stress hormones to soar, and this is damaging to your health.

 

Improving your connection with other people will have a positive impact on your health. Here are some simple ideas to try:

 

• Join an online group or take up a new activity with others.
• Spend more time with people you love. Try video calling them or send them a message to say how much you appreciate them.
• Try out a simple act of kindness.
• Find out how technology can help you feel less isolated. AbilityNet provide resources to help people use digital technology more effectively.

There are other positive steps you can take to connect with the world around you and your place in it:

 

1. Meaningful work. 87% of people feel disengaged or enraged by their work. This is often the result of not feeling heard or of not seeing the value in what they do. If you're still working, talking to others in your workplace can help, or try thinking about how your role improves life for others.
2. The Future. You may be experiencing high anxiety levels about what the future holds. COVID has increased this for many. But even your past was unpredictable when it was the future! It can help to remind yourself that you can handle uncertainty and accept what you can’t control.
3. Nature. Everyone needs nature and the calm it brings. Try getting to one of the local parks, or walking somewhere just outside London - how about the Thames Path, the Chilterns or one of these circular walks near London? Or check out the National Trust link below for inspiration.

Johann Hari's book "Lost Connections" has received rave reviews from people across the globe. This 20-minute video explains the positive impact of connecting well on physical and mental health.

"I go to nature to be soothed and healed, and to have my senses put in order."

The National Trust has put together a "slow TV" playlist of short videos from beautiful places around the UK. Research shows that even just watching images of nature has an immediate positive effect on your wellbeing.

Sharing your story of change is a powerful way of motivating others and feeling connected. Discover the stories of your fellow North West Londoners on our Share Your Story pages.