Loneliness Hurts Deeper , How to Deal Mindfully
Scientists are claiming that loneliness may pose a greater health risk than obesity. A recent study defined loneliness as "the feeling of being emotionally disconnected from others" and found that this disconnection can be deadly.
Those who felt connected to others were 50 percent less likely to die early compared to those who did not.
While loneliness might seem like just an unfortunate feeling, experts now view it as a real public health issue.
Yoga can play a significant role in addressing this problem. Here are some ways yoga and meditation can help reduce loneliness.
The word yoga comes from Sanskrit, meaning union or joining together. In yoga, we strive to connect with humanity as a whole.
Yogi Bhajan, a well-known yogi who brought Kundalini yoga to the U.S., famously said, “Recognize that the other person is you.” This idea, part of the Kundalini tradition, suggests that through yoga, we can feel a deeper connection with others. Therefore, even when alone, we don't have to feel lonely.
Practicing yoga often means reducing screen time, which is a powerful way to fight loneliness. Emma Seppälä, Ph.D., an expert in happiness psychology, states that social media can hinder our happiness. When we focus on sharing moments online, we disconnect from those experiences and the people around us. By engaging in yoga, we create a quiet space away from our devices.
Sometimes, I playfully tell my students to stop their “chat-asana” before class starts. In reality, those conversations are vital for many. Practicing yoga together and socializing in our communities helps combat loneliness.
Most yoga classes start with breath awareness. Interestingly, when we simply notice our breath, it begins to change naturally. This shows the power of attention. In meditation, we shift our focus from the outside world to our inner experience. We observe ourselves as we are, without trying to change anything. Over time, change occurs effortlessly.
While it’s important to address ongoing loneliness, strong emotions are part of life. By recognizing how loneliness affects our bodies, minds, and spirits through meditation, we initiate the change process. If you’re new to meditation, consider trying a 30-day challenge.
The irony of the loneliness epidemic is that many of us feel disconnected, yet we are not alone in this experience. Understanding our emotions helps motivate us to take practical steps, such as reflecting on yoga’s meaning, reducing screen time, joining a group yoga class, or starting a meditation practice.