Information floods our lives every day bringing details of numerous methods of healthy eating and exercise regimes to maintain our health. However, we are not often reminded of how important it is for our emotional health to develop deep honest and meaningful relationships let alone given guided steps and advice on how to create these relationships. And yet the research backs up evidence the biggest influence on our physical health is defined by our emotional well being and most healthy people are those that have a sense of community and connection with others.
At this time of year we don't think twice about joining a gym or starting a new healthy eating plan, but how many of us have on our list of resolutions to reach out and deepen and strengthen relationships? Human beings are social animals and as such when in isolation rarely thrive. It is well known that premature babies thrive more readily when they are physically touched and I would go one step further and say they need to hear a voice speaking with tenderness and compassion. Every living thing is affected by its environment and we naturally seek out connection with others. It is crucial we have people around us we feel able to share our highs and lows and possess a sense of being understood and accepted.
Research tells us people with illness are more predisposed to a full recovery quicker when they experience contact with others who provide genuine support and care. Despite an understanding of how important loving social connections are for our well being we continue to search for a magic remedy to our low mood in the wrong places and this can result in all manner of expensive purchases and even addictions. It is interesting to note that the social networks and deep connections we develop are not just important because they provide us with acceptance and love, but we gain from being able to give unconditional love and support. The best networks are two way and elicit our need to give as much as receive acceptance, love and compassion.
As we grow more separate in our virtual worlds this crucial sense of connection is tenuous and we continue to lose our ability to communicate and connect in a rich and rewarding way. 21st century technology brings us closer in many beneficial ways but by its very invention and nature can give an illusion of connection while removing the personal touch and creating distance. Honest heartfelt communication is no longer commonplace as we all rush about our daily lives not feeling able to commit time and effort to listening and interacting with undivided attention, interest, acceptance and understanding. How often have do we send a text because we just don't have the time to call? A text cannot take the place of the tones, rhythms and emphasis of a voice. Indeed, texts and E-Mails are open to a vast array of misconceptions that can be avoided by taking the time to speak.
It has been well documented that only 7% of our communication is understood based purely on the words. The remaining percentage consists of the tone of voice, facial expressions and body language.Therefore the most effective communication is carried out face to face, where in addition to hearing the subtleties of the voice, we have the benefit of interpreting facial expressions and body language. Whilst this is no guarantee we have full comprehension of what is being communicated we are able to experience every nuance of the full communication picture and are best positioned to check for misunderstandings and put them right. The deepening of connections within relationships relies on the energy invested which in turn relates to the trust built. Our relationships are able to withstand rough patches and disagreement when deep foundations are in place - understanding, honesty and acceptance. It is easier to avoid the pitfall of resentment by naturally employing the quality of forgiveness.
To communicate effectively takes time, effort and intention and it may not be possible to pursue this with all of our relationships but it is vital we prioritise the relationships that we value and enrich our lives. Be sure to invest your energy in developing and maintaining your chosen relationships and promote your whole networks happiness and health.
Learn how to develop and support your relationships with ConneXions Group
created with the aim of being a safe place to express yourself honestly, listen and be heard, learn new resources to help develop deeper connection and better relationships.
Find out more details call or E-Mail and to register to attend please use the following link and contact form:
https://www.e-motionalsolutions.co.uk/connexionsgroup
Date:
25th February 2020 and thereafter the second Tuesday of the month
Venue:
Sunshine Clinic, 175 Send Rd, Woking GU23 7ET
Time:
6.30 - 8pm
Cost:
£15
Karen Oliver:
www.e-motionalsolutions.co.uk
karen@e-motionalsolutions.co.uk
07782 381855/01932 403780
