July as social wellness month brings to mind the practical teachings of spiritual leaders and good advice from mental health experts. As the Dalai Lama said, all of us are Social Animals, woven together by compassion and concern for each other.
Now is as good a time as any to also ponder on sound pieces of advice from mental health experts, life coaches, or licensed psychologists. People, they say, will normally gravitate to those who offer them safe or nurturing connections, and it holds true for both kids and adults.
Indeed, dwindling or scant social relationships can be somewhat distressing for many people.
It can have a negative effect on one’s physical, emotional, and mental health. Being social animals, people are wired to interact with other people, and when their human connections are disrupted or threatened, their internal systems may go haywire.
Laying the foundation for a healthy state of social wellness
Before people can interact well with others, they need to free their mind from undue stresses and anxieties. Reframing stress is one of the best things one can do for oneself. Zen Master and spiritual leader Thich Nhat Hanh suggests that worrying may be pointless. Non-stop worrying will not change a situation; it may even possibly trigger greater anxiety.
There are varying reasons why people become part of the rising statistics on mental disorders.
In the US, where mental illness has reportedly been on the rise, the Trump Presidency has been attributed to the increasing stress and anxiety of many Americans.
In other countries like the UK, the British royals have actively been campaigning for mental health. Prince William, Kate Middleton, and Prince Harry have joined hands with organizations and other celebrities to encourage people to speak openly about their mental health issues and concerns.
As Prince William tweeted, "the silence is killing people." One of the online followers of the British royals noted that when people live in despair and isolation within themselves, it helps to have concerned individuals who show kindness and empathy offering a hand. Such instances can pave the way to social wellness.
Clearing the mind and finding inner happiness
In this frenzied world where people need to live up to expectations and take on responsibilities, there may be moments when things can get overwhelming. The need to refresh one’s mind and ease stress can be done in several ways.
One of the ways to beat stress may be to travel and commune with nature or do something that makes you happy. Others may opt to engage in a wholesome hobby, like drawing, running, or practicing yoga. Veering away from toxic people - and cultivating authentic relationships - can also help usher the way to a more positive and healthier well-being, or social wellness.
