Heather Bedard, C.H.E.
I love the idea of creating community because it inherently promotes the idea that I am not stuck with what I have! My community can change and evolve, and it can be a hopeful, helpful resource for me and my family. Health freedom not only means physical health for my body but the freedom to make the connections and community that I want and that supports my values.
The community you create will be unique to you, but typically it consists of doctors that hold your values – like your general practitioner, any specialists, chiropractor, nutritionists, and natural medicine doctors, as well as your personal trainers, yoga instructors, physical therapists etc., and mental health therapists.
Your network is also going to include the community you have around you in your neighborhood, family, church, and friend group. It’s nice to have a wide variety of skills and perspectives included!
Studies show that people who have a good community around them have better cognitive function as they age. (1) In the Okinawan culture where knowledge and skills are passed down in groups and each member of the community is able to contribute, purpose and identity is formed. (2)
Don’t underestimate the power of friendships and connections in your own life. Many people struggle with this topic because of past hurts and disappointments and the vulnerability necessary to have lasting friendships. Although its hard, having this support network around you for all of life’s ups and downs, not just health related, can be vital. I would encourage you to look into cognitive behavior therapy to address any issues with mindsets, disappointment and pain around relationships and make efforts to put yourself out there. Brene Brown has a wonderful book called, ”The Gifts of Imperfection”, that gave me the tools to learn how to be vulnerable and determine those friendships that I could be my true self with. Not every friendship is like that or should earn that place in your world.
Your community should consist of people in your inner circle who are supportive of you and your health goals. You can talk to these people about the things you’re learning and how they can support you. If you’re struggling to find community, maybe there is an opportunity to create one. Host dinner gatherings themed around different country’s foods, invite people over for drinks by an outdoor fire, or host an outdoor movie night. Just being available is sometimes all it takes. Sit outside in the evening and say hi as people walk by or go on walks in your neighborhood after dinner. It can take vulnerability if this kind of thing is hard for you, but the payoff is well worth it. Meeting other local farmers through various facebook groups or meet ups can also be a wonderful opportunity to support your local community, meet like-minded people, and have healthy options at your fingertips. You don’t have to do it like someone else, you just have to be you and facilitate an opportunity. You never know who will show up!
Creating your community takes some time and intentionality, but you will get there one step at a time. Give yourself grace, keep trying and before you know it, you will be reaping the benefit of a vibrant, life-giving network. Be bold, put yourself out there…and happy networking!
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(1) Evans IEM, Martyr A, Collins R, Brayne C, Clare L. Social Isolation and Cognitive Function in Later Life: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. J Alzheimers Dis. 2019;70(s1):S119-S144. doi:10.3233/JAD-180501
(2) Willcox DC, Willcox BJ, Sokolovsky J, Sakihara S. The cultural context of "successful aging" among older women weavers in a northern Okinawan village: the role of productive activity. J Cross Cult Gerontol. 2007;22(2):137-165. doi:10.1007/s10823-006-9032-0