Loneliness: more harmful to our health than smoking, drinking

 

It’s a true dichotomy when you can stand in the middle of a crowded room and still feel alone. Or function as a vital player within a family dynamic, yet the connection lacks that certain je ne sais quoi that draws you into the fold. I’ve been there, done that—assumed the role of outsider, if you will. The other night, while I practiced Bikram yoga with my community of yogis, the teacher mentioned an article she read about the negative health implications of loneliness proving greater than smoking cigarettes and consuming alcohol. Consequently, maybe these feelings of loneliness serve as reminders that we’re innately created for fellowship. When I experience disconnect in my own little world, I seek solace from my tribe—of yoga warriors, my church family, and close friends. Perhaps if we begin to “love our neighbor as ourselves,” we can cure the world’s hurts one person at a time. And, hopefully, re-establish the connections right in front of us.

How do you combat loneliness?

Photo courtesy of surasakiStock at FreeDigitalPhotos.net.

What a ride!

[Image credit: anat_tikker]

Oftentimes, I get caught up in my own day-to-day issues — the ups and downs and everything in between.  From my sore ankle, to my fairly nonexistent gym life, to the myriad irons in the fire, to writing commitments (those I’m managing well and others I keep putting off), social obligations, health concerns, parenting, work and home lives, and the list goes on.  I can’t help but wonder how many of us believe we’re alone and no one can possibly understand half of what we’re dealing with on a daily basis.  But then I discovered during the course of various conversations over the past several months, that essentially the same stories repeat themselves — only with different names, faces and places.  Tales marked by similar themes of loneliness, heartache, unfulfilled dreams and disappointments.  Perhaps if I focused more on others by taking the spotlight off of myself — by donating my time to a worthy cause, for example — my own issues would pale in comparison.  Or at least maybe I’d better appreciate the view from my vantage point.  And it just might help make the ride easier for someone else.

How do you cope with life’s roller coaster?