Connection and a sense of community can help the process of healing
Everyone loves to belong. Perhaps it’s part of our animal nature to feel safer in a pack than going it alone in the world.
We satisfy that primal need by joining communities — in our workplace, in our neighborhood, and at all the places we frequent. When we are part of a community, we feel supported and more confident.
A community can be defined as “a social unit with a shared focus.” Exercising in community with others is not just great for our physical health, but it boosts our mental-emotional well-being. We enjoy a flood of endorphins when we exercise, and we thrive on the feeling of connection.
Whether recovering from cancer, illness, or injury or just getting healthier, staying connected with others for support can be instrumental in the process.
There are many programs in the community that provide valuable support, such as Parkpoint Health Clubs’ Exercise 2 Wellness — a free cancer recovery program offered in Healdsburg, Santa Rosa, and Sonoma for patients in any stage from diagnosis through recovery.
Participants of the program enjoy skilled instruction and guidance through a combination of classes and exercises, so that patients can nurture their bodies back to wellness in a safe and supportive environment.
Programs such as these not only build physical strength, balance and flexibility, but also empower each participant to stay active and enjoy the support and encouragement of a group. Group participants report feelings of renewed energy levels, mental-emotional stress relief, and a comforting sense of belonging.
And don’t forget, community can be anything that meets the definition of a social unit with a shared focus, so find a sense of community that works for you and gives you the support you need. Try a local walking group, meet regularly over tea with friends or other cancer survivors, or take an educational or an exercise class. There’s a group out there just for you.
— submitted by Heidi Desmond
