The importance of community for health and longevity <3
Hello my darlings,
Today, i am going to talk about community which just seemed fitting as all of my Pilates groups are meeting on Sunday to do our first walk of 2025 and i cannot wait! Community is something i believe is the most important thing to get right in our lives and this could be friendships, family connections, work collogues or even joining a hobby in your local area.
If there is one thing that i have been able to observe closely over my 12 years in hospitality and four year in this wellness space, it is that the happiest people i see and this relates to clients in their 80’s, are the ones who have close, healthy friendships and are part of a community.
At my community classes in Sheffield and Brampton and my wellness Studio in Wath, above all, this is my number one goal, is to create a space for people to meet and connect, to move and feel better, together.
I have had the joy of watching my clients become great friends and support each other through really hard times, i have had clients go on holidays together, clients who have been friends since school coming to class together each week. It truly has been such a beautiful thing to witness but also something i never intended to do at the start, but is now hands down the best part of my work.
From Tribes to Modern Communities
Now lets talk a little bit about how we evolved as tribes, into communities and how we flourish best when we have healthy connections.
Our ancestors lived in tight-knit tribes, relying on each other for survival. These early human groups hunted, gathered, and protected one another, creating strong bonds that ensured their mutual well-being. This tribal structure wasn't just about physical survival, it also provided emotional support, a sense of belonging, and shared purpose. Without this, there would be no humanity today.
Fast forward to the present, and while our lifestyles have drastically changed, our need for community hasn't. The way we form and maintain connections may be different, but the underlying principles remain the same. Whether it's through family, friends, or interest-based groups such as a Pilates class, tennis clubs, being part of a band, these connections provide us with a vital sense of belonging.
Community and Longevity
Scientific research has shown that strong social connections can significantly impact our health and longevity. Studies indicate that individuals with good social networks tend to live longer and healthier lives. This is because social interactions can help reduce stress, improve mental health and make you feel as though you have purpose and meaning.
In fact, communities with high levels of social engagement and purpose, often referred to as "Blue Zones," boast some of the world's longest-living populations. These regions such as Okinawa, Japan highlight the importance of communal living, where people prioritize relationships and support one another throughout their lives.
Fulfillment Through Connection
Being part of a community offers a wonderful sense of fulfillment. When we connect with others, we share experiences, emotions, and knowledge we give ourselves a chance to create networks of amazing people who we can help and receive help along our life journeys.
In a community setting, such as a Pilates class, members motivate and encourage each other in a positive environment that promotes physical and mental well-being which we all absolutely need, not just as a one off, we need to be part of this 100% of the time . The shared experience of pursuing a common goal strengthens bonds and enhances our sense of purpose.
I just want to finish by thanking you all from the bottom of my heart for being part of my tribe, my wellness family, you truly all mean so much to me and every single one of you is as important as the other and let’s keep growing, keep connecting and supporting each other through our life endeavors <3
All my love, Zoe xx
