So in the last post, I shared that healing is more of a side effect than a goal. It happens when we feel connected to ourselves, to others, to the moment we’re in.
But let’s be honest: telling someone to “just connect” can feel a little like saying, “Just relax,” when your mind is racing at 3am. It’s vague. It’s frustrating. And sometimes, it just makes us feel more disconnected. At least it has for me…
So I apologize if I have been kinda preachy.
Connection doesn’t have to be some big, deep, spiritual moment. It can be super simple and it’s different for everyone.
Here are a few ways connection might actually show up in real life:
Feeling your feet on the ground
Yeah, it’s basic. But if your mind is spinning, try this: pause and literally feel your feet on the floor. Wiggle your toes. That’s connection. That’s you being here now.
Taking one honest breath
Not the shallow, stressed-out kind. I mean one full, deep breath where you actually feel your ribs expand. That’s your body reminding you: you’re alive. you’re okay. you’re safe.
Checking in with your body
Ask yourself, “What do I need right now?” Not in a fixing way. More like you’re checking in on a good friend. Maybe you need water. Maybe you need to cry. Maybe you just need to sit and not pretend for a few minutes.
Reaching out, even if it’s awkward
Connection with others doesn’t have to be deep heart-to-hearts. It might be sending a meme to your best friend or texting someone, “Hey, what’s new?” That’s connection. That counts.
Giving yourself a little grace
This one’s big. Sometimes the most powerful connection is choosing not to beat yourself up for being human. Instead of, “What’s wrong with me?” try, “What’s hurting right now?” That tiny shift? That is self-care and that can be healing.
This stuff is subtle. It’s not flashy. But it’s real. And for me, it works.
I have seen that every time I pause to connect, in even the smallest way, I have reminded myself that I matter. That I am not a project to fix. That I am allowed to just be.
So if today feels heavy, please, don’t go searching for some grand healing moment. Try one small act of connection instead.