I am really, really missing hugs.
I was a prolific, serial and sometimes random hugger.
Before Covid.
I still get a few in, with my bubble, but I’m avoiding gatherings, even with all safety protocols, because I just can’t help it.
It is too important to make that connection.
When I hug, it feels like an eternity to the huggee
Until something clicks as they remember or acknowledge that this is safe. Their breathing changes. I can feel the tension let go. I can hear the almost inaudible sigh. There is an energy transference occurring. Unspoken agreements. A sense that all is right in that mindful moment.
Science says there are physiological reasons for this. There is a relationship between hugs and your immune system. A hug reduces the stress hormone cortisol, and boosts oxytocin and endorphins. A hug can also convey meaning without words. We crave that connection.
Perhaps my lack of hug opportunities prompted the word that fell into my lap for 2021. The word “connection”. I set out to explore how to nurture connection without the physicality of touch. I also began to look at all my connections – with people, with nature, with systems, with Spirit, and with myself. This is a continuation of work I have been doing with Intentional Creativity – being intentional with all my connections. Because those connections are there, whether I realize them or not.
Best-selling author and vulnerability expert Brené Brown says we are in a spiritual crisis; that even though the spirit that flows between us and every other human in the world is not something that can be broken, our belief in the connection is constantly tested and repeatedly severed.
“Connection is why we’re here. We are hardwired to connect with others, it’s what gives purpose and meaning to our lives, and without it there is suffering.”
One way I’m forging connections is with my own offerings.
The Saturday before Valentine’s Day I invite you to join me for an artistic process to nurture your own spiritual care. We will create Self Love Compassion Cards for you to remind yourself of one of your most necessary connections.
In the meantime, I invite you to explore and strengthen those connections you have already forged:
Family, community, faith, and friendship. And, if you have the bandwidth, make new or renewed connections with nature, society norms, your child self, and the ”other” – that person you don’t think you have a connection with. As Brené says – the connection is already there.
That sentiment is echoed in our Intentional Creativity Red Thread Circles.
We called you to this circle, and you called us to this circle.
You are already connected to us, as we are connected to you.
You have your own unique piece of red thread that is yours.
We witness your story, and you witness our story.
I look forward to witnessing and connecting with you.
Blessings,
Natalie
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