Day 8- Connection
Creating Connections
From the smallest unit of our cells, to each of the 100 billion neurons in our body we are hardwired to function with connection and in collaboration.
Humans are made to connect, our very existence is dependent upon it. While other creatures have sharp claws, thick skins and incredible speed in their biological favour, we have our smart brains, ability to communicate and collaborate together- theoretically at least putting the groups needs before our own. Whilst this is often not the utopian experience we share with our fellow humans, the fact remains that we require connection with others to survive and thrive.
When we are socialising, exchanging and relaxing with people we feel safe around we are activating our Ventral Vagal system. This is the ‘updated software’ of our nervous system, the evolution from fight-flight survival mode.
By making time and prioritising connection in our days we automatically tip ourselves in the favour of a calm and relaxed nervous system.
Today’s Activity:
Connection
SOLO
Today being all about connection will involve some group work!
Welcome connection into your day with;
Heart-to-heart hugs- If you ‘veer to the right’ whilst hugging you will align the left heart-spaces of your chests together, a beautiful way to connect! Hugging increases oxytocin, the ‘love and bonding’ hormone which slows down heart rate, and reduces stress and anxiety levels. Endorphins released into the brain’s reward pathways bring feelings of pleasure and well-being from a hug or loving touch. It’s said that we need 8 hugs a day for ‘maintenance’ and 12 for ‘growth’. So get huggin’ !
Pat an animal
Catch-up with a friend- on the phone or even better in person.
Make time for intimacy with your partner.
Smile at strangers and make friendly eye contact with those you walk by. It really can make someones day.
WITH YOUR KIDS
You, knowing your child best, may have an idea of what their ‘love language’ is, and also your own love language. If you haven’t heard of the ‘5 Love Languages’, best-selling book from the 90’s, it is certainly worth a read. It is based on the premise that we all have a preference in how we like to give and receive love. Just like us, children too have these preferences, the broad categories being- Quality Time, Physical Touch, Gifts, Acts of Service and Words of Affirmation. Understanding the love language of your children and partner is great for really connecting on a level that person can receive.
Bonus Tip…
Resource
Dr Wayne Todd’s ‘SD Protocol’ is an incredible book which delves into further detail of how stress and sympathetic dominance can affect health and vitality.
This book was written for everyone to understand and also implement changes, so don’t be put off by the ‘sciencey-ness’ (definitely a word…). This information has the power to be truly life changing.
Here is the link to check it out;
