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An anti-love letter to social media, and a love letter to connection.

Writer's picture: Pam NiccumPam Niccum

Connection is important both around you and within you.


Today’s social environment places large emphasis on media - photos and quotes and shared memes through Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Snapchat, etc. etc. etc. THERES TOO MANY. And while there is definitely value in these applications - allowing us to connect with people near and far, giving us the feeling of connection amidst a global pandemic - I wholeheartedly believe they have taken too much value. We spend so much time on our phones, looking for connection, that we sometimes forget to actually phone a friend and make plans. I’m no research specialist by any means, but speaking from experience… An hour or two with friends has done more for my mental health than 4 hours of social media could ever begin to offer. Let’s emphasize…


An hour or two with friends

 has done more for my mental health

than 4 hours of social media

could ever begin

to offer.


Not to mention how all this time staring at a screen, looking to feel something/connect to something/perhaps numb something, deprives us from stepping back and connecting with ourself. There is an entire universe of thoughts, feeling, emotions, and ideas inside of you - are you exploring it?


Connection to Self

“To be connected to yourself means to be attentive and attuned to what is going on inside of you, and to know who you are.” Found that beautiful definition here.  Being connected to yourself helps drive motivation, assists mood regulation, and provides a roadmap to life navigation. I didn’t find this on Google, I’m speaking from experience.


Here are some simple places to start on your own!

  • Journaling: maybe start with a brain dump of any and all thoughts that come to mind. Let it be messy and imperfect, like word vomit onto a piece of paper.

  • Mindfulness practices: breathing, moving, doing something just for fun (playing).

  • Sit in silence and find stillness for 5+ minutes. Notice physical sensation, acknowledge any feelings or thoughts that arise, follow the breath in and out.

  • Practice self-compassion. I think this is hard for many, we often beat ourselves up much better than we offer unconditional acceptance for doing the best we could at the time.


Social Connection

According to the Canadian Mental Health Association, “Social connection can lower anxiety and depression, help us regulate our emotions, lead to higher self-esteem and empathy, and actually improve our immune systems.” Our ancestors lived in tight-knit communities, in smaller homes, constantly surrounded by the love and support of others. If you’re more introverted like me, that may seem overwhelming… Make space in your life for balance. A great way to find social connection is by finding an event in your area - try something new, invite a friend or make new friends! You can also head over to the Creating Space Events page to see what we're up to. ;)



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