We Heal in Connection

Why Friendship, Mindfulness, and Community Are at the Heart of True Healing 

Recently, I spent a weekend in New York City with friends I’ve known for over 30 years. We wandered through familiar neighborhoods, shared old stories, and laughed until we cried. At times, I felt like I was 19 again—and also like the woman I am today.

It was nourishing in the deepest way.

And it reminded me: we don’t heal alone. 

Whether we’re recovering from stress, illness, heartbreak, or simply the pace of modern life, we need one another. Healing happens in relationship. In laughter. In being fully seen and still fully accepted.

The Nervous System Needs Safe Connection

There’s science behind this. According to Dr. Stephen Porges and his Polyvagal Theory, our nervous systems are wired for connection. When we feel safe and attuned with others, our body shifts out of fight-or-flight and into what’s called the “social engagement system”—a state where healing, digestion, rest, and emotional regulation can happen.

In other words, connection is medicine. 

And while we often think of healing as something we do alone—through rest, reflection, or time—it’s often the presence of others that makes healing truly possible.

Mindfulness Helps Us Connect Better

Mindfulness practices like breathwork, meditation, and gentle movement don’t just help us feel calmer. They change the way we relate—to ourselves and to others.

Studies show that mindfulness increases empathy, compassion, and emotional resilience. It strengthens the insula—the part of the brain involved in self-awareness and understanding others’ emotions. When we practice being present, we’re more available to those we love. We listen more deeply. We speak with more intention. We connect more fully.

But here’s the key: connection with others begins with connection to self.
When I’m grounded, present, and resourced, I can show up for others in a much more meaningful way.

From Inward Stillness to Outward Joy

That weekend in NYC reminded me how essential joy is—how being with people who know and love you helps you remember who you are. 

And it also reminded me of something I’ve seen time and time again:
When we create space to pause, reflect, and come back to ourselves, we naturally become more open to connection with others.

This is the heart of why I offer retreats and workshops.
Not to escape life—but to come home to yourself, so you can return to the world with a full heart, steady breath, and open arms.

Whether it’s a few quiet hours or a full weekend, these spaces are designed to help you reconnect—inwardly and outwardly.

If you’re feeling the need to recharge, to be in community, or to simply pause and listen inward, you’re warmly invited. Learn more about upcoming retreats and gatherings here

• Siegel, D. (2010). The Mindful Brain

• Cresswell, J.D. (2015). Mindfulness interventions improve interpersonal relationships.

• Kemeny, M. et al. (2012). Contemplative/emotion regulation training increases compassion.

• Porges, S. (2011). The Polyvagal Theory: Neurophysiological Foundations of Emotions, Attachment, Communication, and Self-Regulation.