At this time we are suffering a great disconnect from our social outlets. Whether it's extended family or friends we have found ourselves keeping our distance, 'sheltering in place', and feeling the a fear of jeopardizing our health, or the health of our loved ones via contamination from being around others, known or unknown. We are asked to refrain from social gatherings of all sorts, even going into an office for work, when that is what most of us are used to. How is this feeling for you?

I imagine those who see themselves as more extroverted are struggling a bit more than the self-proclaimed introverts. I, myself, do my best to refrain from labels as they often don't speak the whole truth about the person or situation, just an aspect of the whole. Maybe now those identified as introverts are missing the option to socialize or not, longing for a bit of extroversion, and vice versa.

The Greek philosopher Aristotle said, "Man is by nature a social animal". Aristotle also believed in what he called the golden mean, which is described as striving for balance between two extremes. In our modern society we are often caught up in a bustling social life. Maybe one thing we are seeing here during our plague-cation is an opportunity to experience the other extreme, find some comfort in the solitude, and thus be more able to strike a healthy balance as things trend back towards a familiar normal. Or, seeing that what we'd like it a little more socializing than we originally thought we'd need. Of course we must also think about quality over quantity when it comes to how & how much we connect with others.

So, how does one define Social Wellness? In simple terms it could be having cohesion in our family and social connections. According to the University of New Hampshire's Living Well Services it goes a little more in depth. On their web page they offer the following as signs of social wellness:

Development of assertiveness skills not passive or aggressive ones.
Balancing social and personal time.
The ability to be who you are in all situations.
Becoming engaged with other people in your community.
Valuing diversity and treat others with respect.
Continually being able to maintain and develop friendships and social networks.
The ability to create boundaries within relationship boundaries that encourage communication, trust and conflict management.
Remembering to have fun.
Having supportive network of family and friends.

The Optimum Performance Institute, on their site, suggests these 7 ways to cultivate social wellness:

Practice self-care
Know thyself
Don't criticize, judge, or blame (this includes self)
Own up to your part
Rekindle old friendships and nurture relationships with people who are respectful, positive and supportive
Don't be a flake
Appreciate yourself and others

(for a better understanding of each of these, click ~HERE~ for the article)

I might also include our involvement in community. Whether it's volunteering for a worthy cause or helping out a neighbor or supporting friends and family during a time of need how we show up for the betterment of our community is a selfless act that benefits all concerned and leads to a greater feeling of connection.

With what is found on both of these lists in mind, how would you assess your social wellness? Balanced??? Or a little askew one way or another? In which ways could you see yourself wanting to improve?

Loving Kindness Meditation

In the air of social contemplation this weeks meditation focuses on loving kindness, for ourself and our community.

1) Begin with forgiveness.

We have all been hurt, and have inadvertently hurt another. Forgiveness allows us to find peace.

Repeat the following words once before moving on:

May I forgive myself for hurting others.

May others forgive me for hurting them.

May I forgive myself for hurting myself.

2) Say loving-kindness for yourself.

Repeat the following words over and over, until you can feel the words resonating within.

May I be safe.

May I be happy.

May I be healthy.

May I be peaceful.

3) Say loving-kindness for others.

Next, repeat the loving-kindness affirmations for others. Picture individuals, or entire group of people, that you are inspired to send these thoughts and wishes to. Some of these people might include teachers, mentors, guides, family members, friends, neutral persons, unfriendly persons, all persons/living beings/ living things.

Then, consider those you have difficulties with and do your best to offer up the same affirmations. Yes, this might feel quite uncomfortable, as many growth opportunities often are. Just do your best.

Repeat the following loving-kindness words for each of the above groups.

May (name here) be safe.

May (name here) be happy.

May (name here) be healthy.

May (name here) be peaceful).

Optionally, add these words:

May (name here) be free from pain, hunger, and suffering.

4) Conclude with a final blessing or wish for others.

Say the following words once.

May suffering ones be suffering-free,

May the fear-struck fearless be.

May grieving ones shed all grief,

May all beings find relief.

How was that for you? You might find it helpful to journal what you discover.

I do hope you are enjoying these weekly emails. For more nuggets of wisdom and inspiration please follow WayFinder Wisdom on Instagram and/ or Facebook and/ or Twitter.

Until next we meet be healthy & stay safe!

With you on the Journey,

~ Cheryl ~