During my years of hosting retreats, I’ve always been amazed at how many times women say to me, “I don’t know anyone here,” and then immediately find themselves connecting with someone new.
I’ve always felt that meeting new people enhances the retreat experience—and clearly others agree. As one attendee noted, “You start off as a group of strangers and end up with a family of deeply connected kindred spirits.”
According to the Mayo Clinic, not only does connecting with people prevent isolation and loneliness, it also reduces the risk of many significant health problems, including depression and high blood pressure while also supporting healthy lifestyle habits like exercise.
So whether you overcome your fear of “unknowns” and make plans to attend a retreat for the first time, or simply introduce yourself to a person you see everyday but don’t know by name, try making friends with a stranger.
I think you’ll discover how it can improve your health and your happiness.
Be well.