Feeling Lonely?

As human beings, we have a biological need for connection with each other. It is crucial for our physical, emotional, mental and spiritual health. We evolved to be social and our survival was dependent on our ability to connect with our group. 

But we all get lonely and the pain that loneliness produces is real. 

Loneliness can happen whether we are surrounded by people or by ourselves. Connecting through technology is not enough, we need to engage on a personal and human level with each other. Loneliness is painful and isolating. It can cause us to misinterpret situations we are in making us feel rejected or unwanted which can lead to further isolation. 

They way forward is to be brave and take action. First off, if you are near us, come on in. Being with community is uplifting and supportive. There is nothing more to do other than come in for class and just be in the presence of others. It will elevate you. Second, and I know it can be scary, but reach out to someone, anyone - they may be lonely too! Schedule a date for tea, coffee or lunch. Invite them to a yoga class or for a walk in a nearby forest preserve. And if you aren’t sure who to call, seek out where you can be of service. Volunteer at an animal shelter, offer to serve meals at a homeless shelter, visit patients in a nursing home or mentor a young person. Type “service opportunities near me” into Google to find a number of ways you can be of service, you don’t even have to make a commitment. Seva (selfless service) provides you with an opportunity to serve others in need, but also to connect with those of like mind. 

Yogi Bhajan said, “Don’t just talk to a person, don’t just befriend a person, don’t just shake hands with a person. Serve that person. Elevate them.”

Serving others also serves and elevates you. Connecting with others moves you away from loneliness and into understanding that we are all one.