Better Together: How Social Connection and Wellbeing Go Hand-In-Hand
~ Madeleine Marentette, Founder of Grail Springs Retreat for Wellbeing
Over the decades I have led many retreats at my centre, Grail Springs Retreat for Wellbeing, as well as to other magical and sacred places around the world. My first experience as a retreat attendee was in my early 20s, stepping into a sharing circle led by an elder, attended by other young women on a journey of self-discovery.
The Power of Vulnerability
I recall the feeling of how terribly nervous I was, heart racing, certain I would choke on my words, and very uncertain as to what exactly I would share. I did not have a voice back then. However, the picture of embarrassment in my mind if I declined to share quickly became a non-option, especially after others had expressed such vulnerability.
I did get through the experience of sharing my deepest emotions with these strangers and recall the surprising and lingering feelings of liberation and happiness I felt afterward. I looked forward to repeating the experience, and it became easier and easier to find my voice each time. There was a progression of self-awareness, confidence, and growth.
The Importance of Social Connection for Well-being
By nature and design we are social animals and tend to function better and are happier when we choose to be part of a community. We’ve all had the shared experience of lending a helping hand to a friend or exchanging a few kind words with a stranger and how this can bring about positive outcomes and an increase in a ‘feel good’ sense of happiness and optimism.
Today, we are besieged with daily news reports and research addressing the exponential number of individuals experiencing mental health crises. Statistics Canada shows that in 2020, one in five adults reported moderate to severe symptoms of stress, depression, and anxiety, compounded with addictive behaviour choices. That statistic then rose to one in four adults in the following year. Prolonged isolation and loneliness can factor into the development of mental health conditions, leaving a person at a higher risk of choosing unhealthy habits, experiencing depression, developing cognitive issues, and increasing the chances of dementia in later years.
According to a Cleveland Clinic survey, 71% of people with strong physical and mental health correlate to having a strong social life and healthy relationship bonds.
Reasons Why Social Connection is Important for Well-being:
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Reduces Stress: Engaging in social activities can lower stress levels and help individuals manage their emotions better.
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Improves Mental Health: Strong social connections can reduce the risk of depression and anxiety.
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Enhances Physical Health: People with strong social ties have been shown to have lower rates of chronic illnesses and better overall health.
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Promotes Healthy Behaviours: Social support can encourage healthier lifestyle choices and discourage harmful habits.
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Increases Longevity: Studies show that individuals with strong social connections live longer than those who are isolated.
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Boosts Self-Esteem: Positive social interactions can enhance self-worth and confidence.
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Provides Emotional Support: Having someone to talk to and share experiences with can provide comfort and reduce feelings of loneliness.
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Encourages Personal Growth: Being part of a community allows for shared learning and personal development.
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Enhances Cognitive Function: Social engagement can improve brain health and reduce the risk of cognitive decline and dementia.
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Fosters a Sense of Belonging: Feeling connected to others can create a sense of purpose and belonging, which is crucial for emotional well-being.
Ready to experience the transformative power of sharing? Join our group workshops and sharing circles.
Quality Over Quantity in Social Connections
Not all relationships are created equal, as we all know. Quality relationships over quantity of relationships is the goal. Oftentimes, our chosen families out-love and out-support our birth family. What makes a relationship, a family, a culture, or a community thrive is having like-mindedness, similar pursuits, and similar views of life. Sometimes, we think that we must be an introvert because we love being alone, but in reality, we just love being at peace and are actually very social around people who share our goals, bring us peace, inspiration, and joy.
This is the case with retreat-goers who find themselves in a secure and safe place such as Grail Springs, sharing common wellness goals and life-pursuits with strangers they have just met for the first time. They have chosen to come on a retreat alone yet are surprised how the ‘social-them’ emerges, sharing meaningful conversations with strangers and finding out that it has been a powerful and integral piece of their healing and transformative experience. Individuals naturally open up their minds and hearts when they sense that the given group activity is going to support each person’s goal unilaterally. A natural bond occurs that can turn into lifelong friendships.
Looking to build meaningful connections? Join us with one of our retreat packages.
Real-Life Benefits of Social Connection and Well-being
This is a real-life dimension that is rarely experienced by most people. Sharing and listening openly can bring brain and heart coherence, healing synthesis, and resolve to long-held troubles and suffering. The experience can also promote a deep sense of belonging that may have been void in a person for decades.
The Grail Springs sanctuary for healing and wellbeing provides a profound sense of connectedness and community, expressed over and over again by guests. Having the opportunity to participate in group workshops, sharing circles, yoga, hikes, or having meals at the community table can uplift and free one from the habits of isolation that are affecting our mental health.
Experience the benefits of social connection at Grail Springs. Learn more about our classes and workshops.
Practical Tips for Enhancing Social Well-being
Get Social: Take a walk in the neighbourhood and make an effort to talk with strangers. A friendly face-to-face exchange will do wonders for your mental health (and more than likely theirs too). Intend to make a new life-long friend. And begin to live with the awareness that longevity, well-being, and belonging go hand-in-hand.
Join Community Groups: Engage with local community groups or clubs that match your interests. Whether it’s a book club, sports team, or hobby group, being part of a community can foster a sense of belonging and provide regular social interaction.
Volunteer: Volunteering for local causes not only helps others but also connects you with like-minded individuals. It’s a great way to build new relationships while making a positive impact on your community.
Attend Social Events: Make an effort to attend social gatherings, such as community fairs, cultural events, or neighbourhood parties. These events provide opportunities to meet new people and strengthen existing relationships.
Participate in Group Activities: Join classes or workshops where you can learn new skills while interacting with others. For example, consider exploring group workshops and classes offered by Grail Springs for a blend of learning and social interaction.
Stay Connected with Loved Ones: Regularly reach out to family and friends, even if it’s just a quick phone call or video chat. Keeping in touch with loved ones can strengthen bonds and provide emotional support.
Practice Active Listening: When interacting with others, practise active listening. Show genuine interest in their thoughts and feelings. This can deepen your connections and make your interactions more meaningful.
Host Gatherings: Invite friends, family, or neighbours over for casual get-togethers. Hosting events can create a welcoming environment and help forge stronger relationships.
Engage in Online Communities: If in-person interactions are challenging, consider joining online communities or forums that share your interests. Virtual interactions can still provide valuable social support and connection.
Ready to Start Your Journey to Improving Your Wellbeing?
Are you ready to embark on a journey to enhance your social connection and well-being? At Grail Springs, we offer a variety of retreat packages designed to help you reconnect with yourself and others in a supportive, transformative environment.
Whether you are interested in manifesting happiness, discovering the power of bio-energy, or simply seeking practical tips to reduce stress at home, our offerings are designed to support your journey towards a greater sense of self.
Take the first step today by booking your retreat online and start experiencing the profound benefits of enhanced social connection and overall well-being.
