The Power of Connection: Oneself, the Present Moment, and Others
The power of connection has been linked to helping people to maintain a state of mental well-being, decrease various health risks, improve physical health, strengthen the immune system, reduce distress, support regulation, and lower symptoms of anxiety and depression. Connectedness is based on the phenomenon of emotional, physical and cognitive experiences that enable an individual to feel interconnected with the world, prompting deep sensations that make one feel ‘alive’.
This core human need can be attained through an outlet that is unique to each of us: what connection can you build within you? A connection to some form of self, to others, to the present moment, or all three?
If you’re in the process of exploring the connection(s) that light you up, meditation is a powerful tool to help enjoy and appreciate the moment of ‘now’. Taking the time to bring conscious awareness to your heart, using techniques such as stillness and rhythm of breath, is all about returning to our role as the observer. Just like vacuuming your home, you need to clean your mind!
To begin the process of connecting to the present moment, start with (a) gentle attention, (b) a willingness to commit to doing so, and (c) something to pay attention to (whether it’s an emotion or something physical, such as a candle flame). Throughout your meditation (or whatever activity you find that has the ability to bring you to a peaceful headspace, such as a nature walk or form of creativity), ask yourself, who am I really? Who is it that’s living through my eyes? You may find yourself drifting, then simply find your way back to your stream of focus again and again.
From a personal perspective, I find myself enchanted with the journey of connectedness to my body and movement: a soma-connection that allows me the mental fuel to carry on through daily tasks and general creative outlets. Activities such as stretching, weight-lifting or progressive muscle relaxation supports the connection I have to my body, bringing me to a space of mindfulness as a platform for joy and well-being.
For others, there are no limitations to exploring what these connections may be. What elevates your motivation? Getting lost in some form of art? An activity? Alone time? Social time? Being in nature? Books? Music? Walking? Running? Meditation? Remember, when connecting to your heart, it is important to have fun! Let go and connect to your inner child to help guide your journey.
Connectedness through relationships to others can unite an individual to causes and feelings of purpose. Simple acts of service, meeting the needs of someone else, seeking justice on behalf of someone who cannot speak for themselves, can all help with clarity and inner peace. One can begin by exploring questions such as (a) what needs have I seen in my community? (b) what are my passions? And (c) how might I use my time, talents or resources to be of service in that area?
As a key takeaway, finding a connection to anything that we find value in, can help enhance our overall well-being and quality of life.
If you have been thinking about seeking support on your journey, please reach out to our office anytime. Our intake and administration team are happy to walk you through the process!
References:
- Gladding, S. T. (2018). The Counseling Dictionary: Vol. Fourth edition. American Counseling Association.
- Gobin, R. (2019). The self-care prescription: Powerful solutions to manage stress, reduce anxiety & increase well-being. Althea Press.
- Skidmore, S. (2022). Connectedness in Psychology. Study.com
- Pinel, J. P. J., & Barnes, S. J. (2018). Biopsychology (10th ed.). Pearson Education.
About the Author
Amanda Maitland, is both an administrative and intake assistant here at The Growth and Wellness Therapy Centre, as well as currently pursuing her Masters in Counselling Psychology at Yorkville.