written by Rebecca-Sophia Strong
Photo by Pavel Danilyuk
In today’s world, it’s easy to feel disconnected from the people and experiences that bring us joy and fulfillment. Between the busyness of daily life and the challenges we face, our connections—both with others and ourselves—can begin to feel distant. I’d like to share a practice inspired by fascinating neuroscience research that can help us reconnect with ourselves and others. It’s about taking small steps to improve our emotional state and the relationships that matter most.
The Power of the Right Hemisphere
Have you ever felt deeply connected to everything around you, almost as if you were one with the universe? Neuroscience research, like the work of Jill Bolte Taylor, highlights the role of the right hemisphere in creating these experiences. This part of the brain governs creativity, intuition, and a sense of connection. In contrast, the left hemisphere handles logic and analysis. Engaging in activities like poetry, music, or singing can activate the right hemisphere, shifting us into a state of joy and peace.
Shifting Your State of Being
Once the right hemisphere is activated, our internal story changes. Neuroscience tells us that the narrative we tell ourselves about the world is shaped by our emotional state. When we’re joyful and connected, our perspective becomes more compassionate and positive. On the other hand, negative emotions like fear or anger color our stories in darker tones. Shifting our state of being can profoundly impact our mental outlook. Anxiety Therapy, for example, often focuses on helping individuals reframe their inner narratives by working through these emotional states.
Strengthening Connections
Consider the relationships that matter most to you. Is there a connection that could use a little nurturing? Whether it’s a family member, friend, or colleague, focusing on the “line” between you and that person—like the interconnected roots of trees—can create stronger, more resilient bonds. This doesn’t require grand gestures. Sometimes the smallest actions, like sending a text or making a quick call, can have the biggest impact. When you reach out to someone, you activate positive emotions for both yourself and the other person.
A Poem to Inspire Action
David Whyte’s poem Start Close In reminds us that meaningful change begins with the smallest steps:
“Start close in.
Don’t take the second step or the third.
Start with the first thing, close in,
The step you don’t want to take.”
This is a gentle invitation to reconnect with the people in your life by taking humble, authentic actions. Ask yourself: I wonder how they are. I wonder what’s new. These small inquiries can lead to powerful shifts in your relationships and emotional state.
Taking Action: Strengthening the Line of Connection
Think about one person in your life with whom the connection has grown distant. Take one small step to strengthen that bond. You can:
Send a message or email to check in.
Write a heartfelt note or card.
Make a quick call to catch up.
Plan a simple gesture, like a coffee date.
Strengthening connections benefits your mental and emotional well-being. Acts of reconnection reduce isolation, alleviate anxiety, and foster a sense of belonging—key focuses in Anxiety Therapy.
The Benefits of Reconnection
Reaching out brings multiple benefits:
Improved mental health: Strengthening relationships reduces feelings of isolation, anxiety, and depression.
Increased happiness: Reconnection fosters joy and fulfillment.
A positive shift in perspective: Activating the right hemisphere and engaging in acts of kindness can help you view the world with greater love and compassion.
Life is full of challenges, but small, intentional actions can improve your state of mind and your relationships. Strengthening the lines of connection between yourself and others creates a ripple effect of connection, peace, and growth.
If you’re interested in exploring how Anxiety Therapy or other therapeutic practices can support your emotional clarity and connection, reach out to Strong Solutions Boulder. Together, we can strengthen the most important connections in your life.
Take care, and remember: one small step can make a world of difference.
If you want to learn more about Anxiety Therapy, click here.