Solitude

One of the cornerstones of self-care is, of course, self-awareness.? One important aspect of self-awareness is to understand the difference between solitude and loneliness.

Placed against the backdrop of feeling safe, the difference between the two becomes very evident.? Stephen Porges' Polyvagal Theory helps us really understand the importance of being able to tell which we are experiencing.

Loneliness brings with it an uncomfortable sense of not being safe.? You might lack companionship, feel isolated or feel left out or not a part of.? These experience are all difficult for us as we don't have the experience of safe connection.

Solitude, on the flip side, is nourishing.? It is a choice of spending time alone and experiencing a sense of peace in that setting.

Spend a bit of time sensing the difference in your body.? Bring to mind a time when you felt lonely.? What are the sensations that arise for you?? Now, reflect on how solitude feels to you.? What body sensations do you have during that experience?? When you can recognize the difference, you can act according to your greatest need.? Connect with someone or go sit under a tree with a book?? Both are important aspects of self-care.?