Why we all need community
If you’re like me, your life can often be busy, overwhelming and noisy. Filling our minds with noise and our lives with busyness, however, doesn’t always save us from experiencing loneliness.
According to a 2023 Meta-Gallup survey, nearly 25% of adults globally reported they frequently felt lonely. Loneliness was such an issue in Great Britain that they hired a Loneliness Minister because they realized just how much it affected every area of life.
Studies show that feeling connected with a community is essential to our health. Being part of an encouraging, connected group of people helps refine us and make us better versions of ourselves. We need a community - whether in person or online - that supports us when we’re struggling, helps us to improve, and encourages our strengths.
I'm not saying that all communities are beneficial. It is important to be mindful of who you are in community with, and to choose your closest people wisely.
“And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near.” Hebrews 10:24–25
Jesus encouraged community by showing us how important it was to Him during his earthly life. He surrounded himself with others, even knowing they would fall short sometimes, and He asked us to do the same.
Healthy community affects all areas of our lives:
Social and emotional wellbeing: Strong social connections can provide support during challenging times by providing practical assistance, such as helping with health recovery, transportation, or sharing resources. Having friends, family and neighbors who offer empathy, help and understanding can reduce stress and improve mental health.
Mental wellbeing: Social isolation has been linked to several mental health issues, including depression and anxiety. Being part of a community fosters a sense of belonging and purpose, which is crucial for good mental health.
Physical wellbeing: Our community can affect our health practices and routines. I am so fortunate to be surrounded by the Stand Unshaken community of women who are seeking better overall health. We meet together for monthly mini retreats, share our lives together, and sometimes get to hang out in person.
If you are struggling to find a community, or just a friend, here are some practical ways to find a community right where you are:
Volunteer at a non-profit organization. You can volunteer at your local food bank, homeless shelter, or refugee center. Consider volunteering to read at your library, or help out at a daycare or nursing home.
Attend a class. Many cities have community centers that offer workout classes, art and craft classes, and several other activities you can learn. (I once attended a painting class with adults of all different ages through our community center, and it was so fun and challenging in the best way!) It’s likely your local communal spaces, like coffee shops or yoga studios, have events you can attend. You might even find a local running group (or something similar, if running isn’t your thing) on Facebook.
Become involved at your local church. This is one of the best places to meet people because there's nothing better than having a community who encourages you to love and live more like Jesus. Make sure you don't arrive each Sunday and rush out at the end of the service. Give yourself some extra time to talk to others. Most churches offer serving opportunities or different group meetings, and these may be great places to connect!
Join the Stand Unshaken community! The SU membership is filled with women who are looking to follow Christ and create daily rhythms of health. We learn together, grow together, and have fun together. (Think monthly mini retreats, group chats and more.) Plus, we have the new in-app community feature that allows us to share snippets of our lives in real time!
You can find community in a lot of places, if you’re willing to put in the effort. It might not be in your “comfort zone,” but it might be just what you need.
None of us were meant to go through life alone. Forming new relationships and finding community can be scary, but I think the reward far outweighs the risk.
If you’re looking for an online community of like-minded women who are looking for better physical, spiritual and mental health, you’re at the right place! We’re a community following after Jesus and His way of life, and support each other along the way. We have community events and challenges (and sometimes retreats!) that offer you more opportunities to find your community. We' can’t wait to see you there!