It is in our psyche, that of our primal nature that we are hard-wired to feel good when connected within a community.
Our early ancestors relied on a social network to not only survive but thrive by eating, sleeping, hunting and playing together.
Physiologically when we are connected in our network we are delivered with a hit of dopamine, Oxycontin, serotonin and endorphins. These hormones and neurotransmitters have provided, throughout human evolution the reward of feeling good.
We repeat these behaviours and essentially pass on this genetic code to our offspring as a way of conserving the knowledge and developing the human race.
As a community we have learnt from each other and with language, been able to communicate this to a larger society and through shared experiences.
In today’s society, “Social Network” has more association with social media such as Instagram, Facebook, Twitter and the hits of dopamine that you gain from a like, share or new friend request, however these are short lived and empty.
The problem is with the influx of Social media the superficial connections that consume your time and energy, taking away from your loved ones that are right in front of you. I know this too well, with a teenager that can simultaneously snap-chat her friends, like Instagram posts and have a conversation about our upcoming camping trip.
It’s a sad fact this is acceptable behaviour in today’s society, a direct correlation to the rising numbers of Mental health in today’s society, particularly among adolescents.
What’s lacking is the real connections, the quality interactions that, for thousands of years humans thrived on for our well-being; social relationships that enable us to use all our senses to engage in connecting with others.
There is something magically that happens on a biologically level that reinforce our wild nature and produce these feel-good hormones and neuro-chemicals that essentially make us feel connected and part of a community.
The power of touch; a simple gesture that positively affects us on a biological level.
Cultivating a strong and supportive community is incredibly powerful in promoting optimal holistic health.
Research has shown that the quality of our social connections impacts physiological functions such as blood pressure, metabolism and stress hormones and subsequently immunity.
Similarly, behavioural changes within a group make a significant difference in adapting new habits, maintaining and producing health positive benefits.
An easy way to start cultivating these key relationships with your nearest and dearest is to sit down and eat dinner at the table, whether family, friends or flatmates, and have a no phone policy.
Engaging in conversation creates connection and with full attention leads to better understand, compassion and subsequently improvement of relationships.
As a family, this is a non-negotiable for me. Hubby, our 3 girls and I sit down every morning to a cooked breakfast and dinner each night.
Morning conversations are generally what subjects they have and what they are excited to do today whilst at night we listen to their highlight reel and discuss how things could have worked out better if they’ve experienced a setback.
I know that these values will be ingrained in them as they develop into women. My hope is that these values underpin the importance of this genuine connection, and not that of today’s society.
I developed Holistic Hikes as a way of sharing my knowledge and insight whilst aiming to create genuine connections with like-minded people, a community. My intention for the Holistic Hikes community is to connect with Mother Nature, to re-connect with themselves and awaken their innate knowing.
To create genuine, face to face connections with others to benefit from this simplistic lifestyle choice of disconnect-reconnect. To empower one another within their holistic health journey, to create longevity, emotional and physical well-being.
Spending time in Nature provides a sensory escape from the overstimulating world of screens. It provides a platform in which to refresh and rejuvenate, essentially finding the necessary balance to urban life.
My group hikes facilitate this healing and connection and allow a platform for discussion on Nutrition and Mindfulness, essentially creating a holistic approach to well-being.
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Let's Connect!
Amanda x
ct!anda x