The Sunshine Report The Power of Coming Together… 'Karen and Jay share thoughts on the epidemic of loneliness that has affected so many people throughout our country and offer positive ideas on how to conquer!' In each of our lives, there is a basic need for human interaction. That warmth of knowing that other people care about us. A yearning for collaboration and appreciation. A positive feeling of ‘connectedness’ when we interact and learn about each other. And a deep feeling of satisfaction when we unselfishly do something good for another person. Yet as you look across our great country, there seem to be so very many people now experiencing ‘loneliness.’ Feeling disconnected – Feeling lost and possibly depressed. Some have described this as an epidemic. And it seems to be affecting people – young and old; in cities and in small towns. Moreover – you just have to believe that this widespread phenomenon has profound implications for public health and well-being, as loneliness is associated with increased risk of mental health issues, cardiovascular disease, and premature mortality. So, we ask the questions: Why is this happening? And, with a spirit of ‘can do’ optimism – what can we do solve this problem and put people on the path to more joyful lives – full of active, spirited human interaction?  As to why – I suspect that much of this has to do with what we might call ‘modern day life’ – filled with social media, hectic work schedules and the intrusion of multiple forms of technology into our daily lives. All of these activities tend to ‘crowd out’ the more traditional means by which we would otherwise feed our yearning for human interaction. Fewer family gatherings, fewer relaxed moments for casual conversation, not as many lunches, coffees, or drinks with friends, etc. And of course, Covid dramatically exacerbated the problem of isolation. Meanwhile today being pulled in many directions crowds out opportunities for meaningful interaction. Or even more detrimental, being drawn in to the addictive – but isolated world – of video games, social media, texting and emailing – where there is limited warmth and seldom an opportunity to experience human interaction in full bloom. So, what to do – especially as these urgencies and forms of technology and escape are not going to magically disappear? My sense is that the answer will have multiple dimensions. One potential solution lies in reestablishing our priorities and investing in relationships. This can involve reaching out to friends, family, and neighbors, scheduling regular social activities, and participating in community events and gatherings. By making a conscious effort to cultivate these meaningful relationships, we can combat feelings of loneliness and strengthen our social support networks. At the same time, it can be coupled with a discipline – to limit the time devoted to social media, video games, etc. In other words, take charge. Not always easy. But, potentially so very worthwhile. A very different approach – that can be done in combination with such discipline – involves making a meaningful choice about where we live. There is a powerful case to make for living in a community – perhaps a small town – where your daily activities serendipitously throw you into the flow of human interaction. As I suspect you know, I am a huge proponent of small towns – and the vibrant social networks that these communities can offer. But it doesn’t have to be a small town – it can be a neighborhood within a larger city. It’s wherever you can find a place where there is a ‘sense of community’ that you can intuitively feel and want to be a part of. These are practical ways each of us can take control of our own lives to combat and ultimately conquer the experience of loneliness. Meanwhile, you can also help others. Take the opportunity to invite others to various informal gatherings – or simply reach out and invite them into your next conversation. Each of us can do a part – and in so doing, the combination of many small steps can work wonders in making this world a less lonely place – allowing us to create a positive human spirit, a zest for health and wellness and an excitement for each new day! Read The Report Healing Loneliness: Harnessing the Power of Nature in New Hampshire Read More Best Buddies Friendship Walk   Read More Positive Profile of the Week: Lorrie Mailhot and Connecting at the Blue Bear Inn This week, I’m excited and pleased to highlight an individual whose business is truly combating loneliness by bringing people together – Lorrie Mailhot. Like the hit sitcom Cheers, Lorrie and her dedicated team at the Blue Bear Inn, located near Crotched Mountain in Francistown, New Hampshire, are ensuring that everyone knows your name and everyone is glad you came. Lorrie purchased the old Crotched Mountain Inn in September 2021; you see, it is her longtime dream to run an inn. She traveled across New England but settled upon a quaint, beautiful location in Francistown, New Hampshire. Today, the Blue Bear Inn is home to the Winslow Tavern. On any given night, the tavern is packed with locals and people from across the nation who have heard about the warm and inviting presence the inn provides. Lorrie and her husband, Bruno, can be seen giving friendly embraces and bear hugs to first-time visitors and frequent patrons. They’re bringing people together and creating a fun, positive, and inviting atmosphere, which truly is the heart and soul of their business and why it is a frequent destination for so many of my friends. Lorrie followed her dreams, stuck to her passions, and committed to ensuring a place she had in mind would exist. From their quilting classes, live bands, annual holiday party, and most recently, an eclipse viewing party, Lorrie finds every opportunity possible to bring people together, so everyone feels welcomed, loved, and embraced. At a time where people are not taking chances and are more concerned about themselves, Lorrie, along with her family and dedicated team at the Blue Bear Inn, is doing something so positive and impactful to everyday life. I encourage everyone to head over to the Blue Bear Inn to truly see what I’m talking about. Learn more at [link removed]. Quote of the Week "The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others." - Mahatma Gandhi     Jay Lucas | www.JayLucas.us  Share This Email Share This Email Share This Email Jay Lucas | 7 Portwalk Pl, Portsmouth, NH 03801 Unsubscribe [email protected] Update Profile | Constant Contact Data Notice Sent by [email protected]