Could your Self-Care Thrive from Finding a Supportive Community?

Having a community for support is essential for self-care.? Many of us rely on individuals, such as close friends and family to support us when we are going through a challenging time.?? Sometimes that is just not enough or is not the type of support that we need.? Belonging to a community, whether a church/synagogue/mosque or a non-religious group, can give us added support.

Having recently lost my mother, I was looking for the support of a community where I could release emotions, cry, and ground myself with others.? For me, that was a community that values meditation, sharing a talking stick (feel free to ask me more about this) and allowing each person to share and be heard.

Within my own coaching practice I have a community, a group on Facebook to support Women in Business in which everyone shares and supports each other (The Self-Care Club for BusinessWomen | Facebook)

There are so many different Communities to explore, here are some types to consider:

· Communities of Interest: These bring together people who share common hobbies, passions, or interests, such as book clubs, sports teams, or hobby groups.

· Identity-Based Communities: These are formed around shared identities, such as ethnic, cultural, or religious groups. They offer a sense of cultural heritage and shared values.

· Communities of Need: These are formed to address specific needs or challenges, such as support groups for individuals dealing with similar health issues or life circumstances.

· Communities of Practice: These consist of people who share a profession or craft, such as professional associations or trade groups. They provide opportunities for learning, collaboration, and professional growth.

· Communities of Action: These are focused on collective action and advocacy, such as environmental groups or social justice organizations. They empower members to work together for a common cause.

And each of these communities can provide different benefits.

· Emotional Support: Feeling connected to others can reduce feelings of loneliness and isolation.

· Practical Help: Communities can provide resources, advice, and assistance during difficult times.

· Sense of Belonging: Being part of a community can enhance one's sense of identity and purpose.

· Health Benefits: Strong community ties are associated with better mental and physical health.

· Personal Growth: Communities offer opportunities for learning, self-expression, and personal development

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If you would like to talk more about finding your community, feel free to reach out to me.