Here is what I've learned about the importance of community. I joined a women's wellness circle run by a naturopathic doctor over 5 years ago now. This circle was born out of the need to create connections for our overall health and well-being when this doctor wasn't seeing results in her patients and researched how to fix that. I thought this was fascinating and continued to do some exploring on this topic.
I learned that we need a connection actually to survive. That as babies without human connection in addition to water, food and breath, they will not survive.
There are places in the world that have been rated the happiest.
They live longer and more fulfilled lives, and they call them the Blue Zones. These Blue Zones in the world have been studied and what they found to have in common amongst other things, is that they all had deep social connections and rituals.
Living more like the people in the Blue Zones involves adopting certain habits and practices that promote longevity, well-being, and a sense of fulfillment. Here are some steps you can take:
Prioritize Plant-Based Nutrition: Emphasize whole, plant-based foods in your diet, such as fruits, vegetables, legumes, whole grains, nuts, and seeds. Limit processed foods, red meat, and sugary snacks. Consider incorporating more beans, lentils, and tofu into your meals as sources of protein.
Stay Active: Engage in regular physical activity that you enjoy, such as walking, cycling, gardening, or dancing. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days of the week. Incorporate movement into your daily routine, such as taking the stairs instead of the elevator or going for a walk during your lunch break.
Nurture Social Connections: Cultivate meaningful relationships with family, friends, and community members. Make time for regular social activities, such as meals, gatherings, or shared hobbies. Prioritize face-to-face interactions and deep conversations to strengthen bonds and foster a sense of belonging.
Find Purpose: Identify activities and pursuits that give your life meaning and purpose. Whether it's volunteering, pursuing a hobby, or engaging in work that aligns with your values, having a sense of purpose can contribute to overall well-being and satisfaction.
Manage Stress: Practice stress-reducing techniques such as mindfulness, meditation, deep breathing exercises, or yoga. Find healthy ways to cope with stressors in your life, such as maintaining a supportive social network, engaging in creative activities, or spending time in nature.
Get Quality Sleep: Prioritize good sleep hygiene by maintaining a consistent sleep schedule, creating a relaxing bedtime routine, and ensuring your sleep environment is conducive to restful sleep. Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night to support overall health and well-being.
Engage in Rituals: Incorporate meaningful rituals into your daily life, such as sharing meals with loved ones, practicing gratitude, or participating in cultural or religious traditions. These rituals can provide a sense of connection, purpose, and belonging.
Create a Healthy Environment: Surround yourself with a supportive environment that promotes health and well-being. This includes maintaining a clean and organized living space, minimizing exposure to environmental toxins, and fostering positive relationships with your surroundings.
By incorporating these principles into your lifestyle, you can begin to live more like the people in the Blue Zones and reap the benefits of improved health, longevity, and overall well-being. Remember that small changes can lead to significant improvements over time, so start with manageable steps and gradually build upon them.
FIND COMMUNITY HERE
FREE Community Lunch, Hosted by Chef Nina's Creative Kitchen
Location: The Church of Resurrection - 435 Mohawk Rd W, Hamilton, ON L9C 1X1
Every Week 12-1pm - WEDNESDAYS
Open Door at The Valley Experience - Wednesdays, 8-10pm - CLICK FOR INFO
The Wild Collective - Women's Group Health Program - CLICK FOR INFO
G E T N O U R I S H E D W I T H N I N A
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