community maxxing

Across many disciplines, including psychology, public health, neuroscience, digital wellness, and sociology, the same conclusion continues to be drawn: humans crave and are wired for connection. Safe and supportive communities that promote meaningful connection help build resilience, buffer stress, support mental health, and increase happiness and overall life satisfaction. Yet, we are reporting feeling more lonely and isolated than ever before.

Loneliness and isolation is not solely an individual problem, but a community-wide challenge shaped by the way we live, work, interact with, and relate to each other. Living in an individualistic society coupled with all the factors of modern (digital) life has created the conditions where we seem to have lost the art of spontaneous interactions and connections. As Dr. Vivek Murthy has said, “We have to step off the private patio and find our way back to the porch.”

One way to do this is by community maxxing which is defined as deliberately and intentionally seeking out regular IRL connections around you in order to combat loneliness.

How do we do this? Here are some ways you can engage in community maxxing:

Learn the name of the person who makes your coffee at the cafe each morning
Start a conversation with a stranger on your morning commute
Say yes to community gatherings
Start a group or join a local club
Check in with your neighbours
Invite your friends to try something new
Become a regular somewhere so that people begin to recognize you
Share your resources (does your neighbour need a tool you have? Offer to lend it to them and start a friendship in the process!)
Volunteer
Be what you want to see in your community

~Kate 🌱

The information provided by Rooted in Wellness Canada is solely for educational and informational purposes and should not be considered a substitute for professional medical advice or treatment. If you are struggling, you are advised to consult with your physician or other medical professionals.