The next time you’re in a restaurant, at the park, on the train or even standing on a line at the grocery store, take a look at the people around you. Chances are, most are head down, engaged in their screens, largely oblivious to their surroundings.
When it comes to IRL interactions, we simply don’t do it as much as we used to. Unless you’re part of a community activity or spiritual fellowship, co-workers or family might be your only human connections.
Just 18 percent of college freshmen socialize in person 16 hours or more each week compared to 40 percent in 1987, a national study conducted by UCLA shows. The school’s Higher Education Research Institute has conducted the socialization study every year since 1987 and has seen a steady decline since the Internet became integrated into our lives.
While this trend doesn’t seem alarming on the surface, it’s actually an unhealthy habit that could shave years off your life. Many different studies (148 in all) have found a strong connection between social relationships and lifespan. Further, an AARP survey found that the rate of loneliness was highest in people who had the fewest friends.
So what do you do if you’re addicted to your smartphone and your only friends are co-workers?
Turn to your local yoga studio. This Yoga Journal article points to powerful ways yoga can help build community and help us all connect to one another.
Here at Studio 108, we take great pride in fostering a feeling of community, friendship and welcoming all.
Our Friday night Community Yoga class at 6 p.m. is just $5 and half of the proceeds benefit a local charity.
We also hold workshops and kids classes, participate in community educational events and are also open to new ideas. We love our students and welcome your input!
Email us at thestudio108llc@gmail.com, message us on Facebook or join us for a class.
Namaste.