3 Reasons Why Purpose in Community Brings Us Joy
When I was in college, I never thought I would join a sorority – there are so many misconceptions and stereotypes. Still, I felt like I was missing something crucial in my life during my college years: being a part of a social community. So, I reluctantly took the plunge and joined Phi Mu. And, you know what? I’m really glad I did. After immersing myself into my new social scene, I felt a sense of security knowing I had someone to sit next to in a class, women I could potentially network with in the future, and a general connection if I ever needed or wanted one. It widened my social circle, and I met incredible women whose paths I wouldn’t have otherwise crossed.
Being a part of this community gave me (albeit unexpectedly!) a profound sense of purpose, which opened up the door to something important that I never knew I was missing: joy in belonging.Feeling included in a community – being a part of something bigger than myself – inspired me to dig deeper into exactly why connecting socially was so vital to my baseline happiness in college... which brings us to this article!
Ahem... Here’s what I discovered:
Belonging is a primal human need. Human beings are social beings; being part of a community fills our innate need to belong. Love and belonging is the most basic, important psychological human need. The need to belong is so innate that, when we are without it, our brains are wired to feel pain in similar ways to physical injury or lacking basic physical needs.
Feeling included is good for our mental and physical health. Creating bonds with others spark joy, support systems mitigate stress, and feeling connected to others protects against depression. Connection also improves physical health, our immune systems, and can actually help you live longer! Especially now in this time of physical isolation, it’s important now more than ever to connect socially, as loneliness can leave us extremely self-focused and stressed... (especially during say...I don’t know...a worldwide pandemic??) Interacting with others offers perspectives beyond our norm, and, in-so-doing, allows us to feel part of something larger – hence the aforementioned sense of purpose.
Connection makes us more productive. Connection can influence motivation in classrooms and work environments; difficult classes or work shifts become more bearable when you have someone you can trust, feel supported by, and joke with! We spend most of our time at work, so enjoying where you are and who you’re with can really make all the difference.
Now, as an ambassador for the Drunk Yoga community, I appreciate deeply how we foster a sense of inclusivity within our company, as well as for our students. Our unique yoga experiences are designed to be social and interactive – (which is why we host such great corporate team-building events!) We unwind, laugh, and share compliments and stories, connecting with each other and being present. Combining movement and social connection is such a great way to de-stress, do something good for your body, and potentially make some new friends! So if you’re still looking for an inclusive community to give you that sense of belonging... we’ve got you ;)
We’re always looking for new ways to support our members. If you have any questions, concerns, or great ideas on how we can help foster even MORE joy, reach out to info@dodrunkyoga.com and someone from our Spirit(s)-Lifting team will get right back to you.
Cheers,
-Nikki
