According to research, more than half of the UK population experiences loneliness. With the increase of social media and subsequent decline in social infrastructure, it’s no surprise people feel more isolated than ever.
The good news is that community wellness is helping change this tide. Tipped to be the leading health trend for 2023, going for a green juice in a café after a yoga class with fellow students is becoming as normal as meeting a friend in the pub.
Social isolation can have dramatic effects on our health, with studies showing social relationships and community boost longevity by up to 50%.
At Seed, we are certainly seeing more people wishing to connect in this way. Along with the local classes, workshops and events our practitioners provide comes an expansive variety of ‘third spaces’, where people can meet and share their experiences in a positive and meaningful way.
As humans, we have a natural instinct to convene in areas that are not our home (first space) or work (second space). With the lines becoming increasingly blurred between the first two, third spaces are more vital than ever. Where they were once bars and cafes, today they are spaces where people can find holistic social connection with likeminded souls.
This summer, Marlow is location to a new wellness festival, In Your Element, organised by London-ite turned local, Krista Madden. Here, local shops, venues, cafes and art galleries are hosting holistic activities for the community. Said Krista, “I wanted to create an environment where people can convene in a positive way, share experiences and learn new ways to be happy and healthy.”
And July will see the return of Oh Shala wellbeing festival near Henley, offering a diverse range of practices from yoga & meditation to dance and art. Said founder, Emily Cobie, “Oh Shala is a completely judgment-free, safe space for community, family and a gathering for people to explore wellbeing practices locally.”
The reality is that when you are in community—surrounded by people with similar struggles and goals — all of a sudden you don’t feel so alone. Something as simple as showing up to a yoga class and saying, ‘I have no idea what I’m doing’ opens up space for someone else to admit the same. Instantly, you share common ground with someone you have just met.
In summary, community wellness happens in collaboration. And research proves that connecting with others on your journey helps you live a longer, happier life.
For local upcoming Seed wellness events, visit www.seedwellness.co.uk.
