Feeling Lonely? Join the Crowd!
By Sandy Schroeder
If you sometimes feel lonely, you are not the only one. Psychologists say many people report feeling lost in today's world. You may talk to lots of people online or on your cell, and actually go nose-to-nose with your kids, pets or other relatives but still feel alone now and then.
In today's frantic world, changes just keep happening and challenges make it harder to establish familiar grooves. As you strive to keep your balance at home, in work, and in the community, you may feel a little disconnected and depressed.
Wherever you are right now, when you feel lost, lonely or isolated, take some advice from mindbodygreen.com's guest psychiatrist, Dr. Samantha Boardman. To get back on track, make sure each connection that you make really counts.
Think about how, when, and where you connect with people and then try a few new techniques.
Listen closely to make it meaningful - Take a minute more to pause and really listen closely to what is being said. Your kids may be trying to tell you something that's very important to them. A close friend may desperately need to confide in you. Or your longtime co-worker may be completely frazzled. If you pay attention, your reply will be more meaningful.
Share the love - Stay in touch with your circle of family and friends and try for lots of positive connections every day. Update your email, address and cell lists. Take a little time to write a short note, make a quick call, or stop by to make everyone feel valued.
Dig deep for core connections - Try to go a little deeper each day with your spouse, kids, boyfriend, girlfriend or other close relatives. Move beyond all of the normal talk about shopping, or dropping off kids, and share a poem, a special video, or a single flower to let them know how you feel. One couple that I know keeps a white board in their bathroom. Every night they write something that they are thankful for about their mate.
Leave the door open - As you work, shop, walk or pick up coffee, make the effort to start conversations and make new connections. Smile and ask what's new or how the day is going. No one is immune to loneliness, and you might just supply the spark that they need.
Every time you interact with someone you have the opportunity to erase loneliness and lift someone's spirit.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Euless, Tex.